I posted about Bayes’ Theorem previously, but stumbled across the concept again from another direction. One line that struck me was the need for new evidence to update prior beliefs. It reminded me that one of the key attributes of remarkable team members is their ability to remain curious—to ask, ‘What else might this be/mean?’ before jumping into action.
How might we embrace new evidence as an opportunity, instead of feeling we have to make it reinforce decisions already made?
Seeing a sign, marking, blaze, trail, or symbol that confirms we are on route builds confidence. Even with digital maps, receiving real-world feedback that our navigation remains correct is empowering.
How might we leave the right blend of clues and wayfinding symbols to help those who follow stay on course? How might we assess if we need to leave an uninterrupted painted line or if we need markings at appropriate intervals?
How do you stay creative? What provides a spark: reading, travel, social interactions, brainstorming, walks, podcasts, etc.? It is easy to sacrifice creativity because the default mode has a script and a specific role to assume.
Who or what is your source of new ideas? How might we schedule time to connect rather than just connecting dots?
If every destination had an express lane and no traffic, we would quickly underappreciate the journey required to reach the edges of the map. Because of the switchbacks, wayfinding, and moments of confusion, we are forced to endure the moments of high friction. The liminal space between certainty and uncertainty is where our best stories originate.
“So we beat on, boats against the current, borne back ceaselessly into the past.” The Great Gatsby
How does our understanding of the green light in The Great Gatsby change over time? How does our work alter with the influence of experience and time? What dreams do we defend, and which do we sacrifice as we watch our own green light pulse from distant shores?
What landscape is visible to you from your current location? How does that add to your understanding of the place you occupy? How does it keep you from seeing other opportunities? How might we assume higher ground to reflect on a broader landscape?
If we place all the outboard motors on one small craft, we will overpower the boat’s structural capabilities. If we apply an underpowered motor, the seas and currents will overwhelm the boat’s capacity. It might be intriguing that more is better, but not if our enterprise cannot handle the potential energy load.
How might we add programs, staff and board members, and partnerships that allow us to move within our capacities? How might we trial experimental efforts with unknown opportunities for success without sacrificing our core efforts?
What new initiative are you launching? Are you embarking on a journey intended to provide service to others, or is it an intriguing route for you to explore? Understanding our intentions helps us provision and promote the quest. What ‘help wanted’ sign will you post to assemble a crew? How does it change based on your motivation?
Features and benefits that set people up for success can also cause damage. How might we recognize that our newest upgrade might disrupt the user’s experience when approached in the wrong direction or with misaligned intentions?
Sometimes the past reveals itself even after the original structure/event has passed. It might add depth and dimension to our understanding of the place we occupy. Otherwise, we will likely label something irrelevant while missing an opportunity to be curious.
What-if-concepts 