Know-it-all leaders are not effective in uncertainty and complexity. Learn-it-all leaders thrive.
The most effective leaders today demonstrate intellectual humility: an open mind, continue to learn, build strong relationships and willing to experiment. Leaders wrestle with questions where there are no simple answers. The only path to clarity is through curiosity and a growth mindset.
Leaders who have true intellectual humility are confident and grounded in who they are. They listen to others and promote a learning culture throughout the organization. They understand that it may not be possible to use previous knowledge to solve today’s problems and that they will make mistakes.
Be curious, rather than right
Know that you have imperfect knowledge about the world
Expose yourself to different ideas and people
It’s impossible to predict specific events so it’s important to watch trends
Challenge thinking: yours and others
Read widely
Move past blame, shame, complain to ongoing learning