Intent
As a leader you are constantly navigating complex interpretations of intent.
You balance your own intentions and the impacts they have (both intended and unintended).
You simultaneously process the actions of others and seek to understand intent.
Your mind sees the direct connection between your thoughts, words, actions, and your underlying intent.
The connection is unconscious, and therefore seeing that the intent behind an action could be mistaken is an unnatural perspective to adopt.
While your interpretation of your actions will always appear rationally motivated, the challenge as a leader is seeing a perspective beyond your own.
Your mind sees the direct connection between others’ words and actions, and unconsciously assumes thoughts and underlying intent.
No amount of coffee can enable your brain to certifiably know the thoughts and intents of others.
At best, the other can share their thoughts or intent, but again you only access this through the action (an imperfect filter) of communication.
Comprehending intent occurs very differently internally and externally.
As a leader, you are asked to do both continuously.
You are engaging in an endless loop of verifying and challenging perspectives that can be impeded by unconscious cognitive processes.
Varm kaffe is a start,
- Morning Cup