Dr. No – The Power of Mindful Perspective in Leadership

Interesting Thought:

A recent conversation with a friend led me to Ellen Langer’s fascinating approach to mindfulness—a deeper, more practical take than the “just be present” advice we hear so often. Langer’s concept is about active engagement with the world and cognitive awareness behind behaviors, while mainstream mindfulness often centers on meditative practice and personal calm. Here’s what that means and why it’s transformative:

Imagine this: Every trait or behavior that frustrates us about someone (or ourselves) has a flip side—an equally valid, positive perspective. Langer’s research found that the way we describe behaviors can be turned around simply by looking at them from the “actor’s” point of view.

For example:

• You might think of a colleague as “credulous.” From their perspective, they’re “trusting.”

• Someone who seems “inconsistent” to you may see themselves as “flexible.”

• If you’re labeled “impulsive,” you might actually value your “spontaneity.”

Langer’s studies asked people to circle traits they’d like to change, such as “credulous” or “impulsive,” and then list the traits they most value in themselves, like “trusting” or “spontaneous.” The exercise reveals a powerful insight: the very qualities we or others may dislike are often reflections of traits we truly value. As long as you value “spontaneity,” there will be people who see you as “impulsive.” As long as you value “trust,” others may view you as “credulous.” Explore more in Ellen Langer’s book Mindfulness.

The Leadership Lesson

This shift in perspective can be a game-changer for leaders. Instead of trying to “fix” or change people, we can start by understanding what they value in themselves and seeing how it aligns with our team’s goals. The challenge isn’t to eliminate or criticize these traits, but to find the context in which they become strengths.

For a GC managing complex dynamics within a team, this approach encourages:

1. Patience: Recognize that behaviors that frustrate you might be valued by others.

2. Contextual Awareness: Before judging a trait, ask what positive quality it reflects from the actor’s perspective.

3. Mindful Engagement: Shift from “fixing” to understanding—building a team culture that leverages diverse strengths.

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Provocative Question

If you looked at your team’s “flaws” through their eyes, what strengths would you find hidden within them?

Until next week, stay curious and keep sharp.

Rosa & Manuel