In The Matrix, the main character, Neo, is offered a choice. He could take a red pill, representing a desire to live in the real world, or take a blue pill and remain secure in his established beliefs, practices, and expectations. His choice was the unknown or stability. In reality, there are few binary choices. Maybe there was a yellow pill?
You need to dive deeper if you cannot think of three or four options. Whether it is a personal or a work-related issue, there are always additional alternatives.
I have found that organizational alternatives surface by asking six questions.
- What new products/services, technology, creative designs, or synergies exist?
- What will boost our market, customer service, or customer loyalty?
- How can our systems, policies, practices, or structure be improved?
- What will improve our processes, quality, efficiencies, or bottom line?
- How can we grow our talent, change readiness, agility, bench strength, or collaboration?
- How can we leverage trends, opportunities, or alliances?
Take the time to adopt a creative and inclusive perspective to discover new choices. It will help you and your team.
Dr. Mary Lippitt is the author of Leadersheep, A Fable About Executing Change.
