The Idea Incubator - Conflict, Comfort, Coaching

Develop 'belief systems' and road test them. Challenge our assumptions. Penn Professor Adam Grant does that in Think Again. Here are excerpts from a review of the fourth chapter. 

• Constructive conflict: Grant argues that conflict, when approached in a respectful and constructive manner, can lead to better decision-making and problem-solving outcomes. By engaging in healthy debates and discussions, individuals can expose blind spots, uncover new perspectives, and refine their ideas through critical feedback;
• Task conflict vs. relationship conflict: Grant distinguishes between task conflict, which involves disagreements over specific ideas or opinions, and relationship conflict, which involves personal feuds or animosity between individuals. While task conflict can be beneficial and lead to improved outcomes, relationship conflict can be detrimental and hinder collaboration and cooperation;
• Challenge network: Grant introduces the concept of the challenge network, which consists of trusted peers or colleagues who are willing to challenge our thinking and provide honest feedback. By surrounding ourselves with individuals who are not afraid to question our assumptions or point out flaws in our reasoning, we can avoid groupthink and confirmation bias and make more informed decisions.

Rework our assumptions. Imagine a pro baseball pitcher considered 'mediocre' because he had only one 'plus pitch' (his curveball). The Astros turned him into a superior pitcher by changing his pitch mix. They asked him to throw the curveball more. 

Throw your plus pitch more. Critical feedback creates sustainable competitive advantage.

Don't fear constructive change. 'On task' means more focus on team and less on individuals. The "game cam" shows both the action on the court and the engagement of "stay ready" players. It captures the excitement of the team for great plays. 

Improvement demands leaving our comfort zone.

No toadies. Don't choose friends solely by their unsolicited praise or relentless ego massaging. Would you want a coach who only praised you and neglected to 'coach up' your 'needs' or limitations? Blaise Pascal wrote a letter once with an apology for its length. "I have made this longer than usual because I have not had time to make it shorter." Our best work takes time. 

Sonny Lane used to say, "If I stop yelling at you, I've stopped believing in you." Great coaches don't give up on players and teams. 

Great players thirst for coaching. Coaching is not criticism.