The Silent Destroyer of Organizational Potential: Are You Guilty of Promoting a Genius Culture?
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Hi! I'm Andrea J. Miller and this is my “On Leading Well” Newsletter. I send this to people in my networks, people I’ve met recently, and friends I want to keep in touch with. You can unsubscribe (AT THE VERY BOTTOM OF THE EMAIL) anytime, I won’t be offended.
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Today, we’ll talk about: The Silent Destroyer of Organizational Potential:
Also this week:
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The Silent Destroyer of Organizational Potential: Are You Guilty of Promoting a Genius Culture?
Welcome to the modern workspace a battleground of intellect where only the 'geniuses' survive.
Sounds a bit intense, right?
Let’s take a closer look.
Behind the shiny surface of impressive resumes and brilliant minds is a harsh truth.
Innovation isn't just stalling out, it's suffocating under the weight of impossible expectations.
Let’s face it the once-desired culture of genius isn't just outdated, it's becoming dangerous.
Why? Because tomorrow's workplace doesn't just need smart people. It needs resilient, adaptable, and collaborative thinkers.
People who thrive on challenges and grow from them.
The future of work hinges on adaptability, learning quickly, and pivoting even faster.
Just look at Microsoft, under Satya Nadella's leadership, it transformed its culture from one that prized genius to one that prioritizes growth.
Nadella initiated a shift towards learning and development, which has not only boosted Microsoft’s innovation but also its market success dramatically.
This transformation demonstrates the power of learning and adaptation over inherent genius.
(Picture by Meta.ai - in case you haven’t tried it yet :)
Here’s why creating a culture of growth over genius is critical:
1. Innovation Demands Experimentation: Genius culture worships the end result. Growth culture celebrates the messy, creative process. The latter is where true innovation lives.
2. Resilience is Key: When failure is a potential career killer, no one takes risks. When it’s part of learning, everyone grows. Which environment sounds more sustainable?
3. Diversity of Thought: Genius often looks the same. Growth does not. It’s inclusive, valuing different experiences and ideas essential for solving complex problems.
How do we shift from genius to growth? Here’s what you can start doing today:
Encourage Learning, Not Just Winning: Shift your reward structure. Celebrate milestones in learning and improvement, not just the big wins.
Normalize Failure: Share your failures – set an example. Make it clear they're expected and essential. If you're leading, be the first to do this.
Diversify Success Models: Showcase a variety of paths to success within your organization. Not everyone has to be a prodigy to add value.
Invest in Continuous Learning: Provide resources and time for learning. Make it clear it’s not a luxury, it’s a necessity.
The future belongs to those who are prepared to evolve. Genius might open doors, but growth gets you upstairs.
So, ask yourself, is your organization promoting the growth it needs to thrive in the future of work?
Your move.
What step will you take today to foster a culture of growth?
Want to dive deeper into the future of work and future-proofing your career?
Join my LinkedIn Live on May 14th, 2:00 PM ET.
We'll explore strategies to foster a truly adaptable mindset, empowering you to thrive amidst any change life – or the workplace – throws your way.
Register HERE:
Can't attend? Register anyway to receive the recording.
In the meantime, share your thoughts below or DM me to discuss strategies to transform the way we work.
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A Couple of Interesting Reads:
Want to Remember More? Make More Mistakes
A neuroscientist explains why errors in learning help forge our memories.
Don’t Waste Your ‘Power Hours’ In Meetings
Want to be more productive? Figure out the best time to buckle down or space out.
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The Lighter Side of Genius
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Andrea@LeadWellCompany.com