This topic is timeless. It is even more critical as we become ever more saturated, (overwhelmed?) with technological options that ‘do things for us.’ But do they really, or are we simply ‘devolving’ our very selves, even our lives, to tools that do not care one whit about us? That is not just relevant in business but in all areas of life. In business, though, the lack of Ownership of Mind can and likely will have a direct and immediate effect on others, and against their will. That kind of effect destroys motivation, teamwork and results, and harms the company in a myriad of ways. So, yes, AI hasn’t displaced us all yet and likely never will. As such, the people are the company. Ownership of Mind is a powerful quality of highly effective employees who sustain vibrant companies.
Cultivating Ownership of Mind in Business: Beyond the Buzz
In today’s fast-paced business world, it’s all too easy to simply echo the latest trends without much thought. However, true success lies in cultivating what’s known as ‘Ownership of Mind.’ This means owning your thoughts with intention and clarity—being more than just a voice in the crowd.
What is Ownership of Mind?
Ownership of Mind involves embracing independent thinking, avoiding the trap of blindly following trends, and developing a strong internal compass to guide decisions. This isn’t about being stubborn or contrary; it’s about making thoughtful, informed choices.
Characteristics of a Mind Owner
Those who truly own their minds often excel in the following:
- Objective Analysis: They assess information critically and think independently.
- Clear Communication: They articulate ideas and suggestions with clarity and confidence.
- Accountability: They stand by their words, owning up to their decisions.
- Collaboration: They incorporate and acknowledge valuable insights from others.
- Adaptability: They embrace feedback while staying true to their convictions.
Photo by Ben Pattinson on Unsplash
Overcoming Bias
Our brains are wired to categorize information, which can sometimes lead to biases. For instance, we might view ourselves too favourably or attribute failures externally. Recognizing and addressing these biases is key to truly owning our thoughts.
Emotional Ownership
Taking responsibility for our emotions can also foster Ownership of Mind. Techniques like group check-ins using the SASHET framework (Sad, Angry, Scared, Happy, Excited, Tender) can help identify and own emotional responses. This involves using “I” statements to express feelings and encourages taking personal responsibility for emotional reactions.
Leadership and Ownership
Leaders play a crucial role by modelling these behaviours. Sharing personal experiences related to material topics and teaching the importance of ownership empowers others to see changes they can initiate. Recognizing how internal struggles influence judgments also encourages personal growth.
Moving Forward
Cultivating Ownership of Mind is an intentional choice that requires ongoing discipline, especially in today’s ever-expanding world of information. It’s about more than just better business decisions—it’s about understanding oneself and the role we play in the world.
In our next article, we’ll delve deeper into how Ownership of Mind connects with our identity and how it influences the way we respond to the world around us.