Embracing the ‘Cognitive Shift’ Wave
High Performing Boards
Being invited to work with NFP Boards is very rewarding. This work often includes stretch insights and value-add opportunities that can directly contribute to improved performance outcomes.
This value-add is about offering a service that can measurably shift a Board in its own capability to exert a positive impact on their organisation.
This reflects a step change for high performing Boards. It is a reflexive practice response. This enables a Board to be more in tune with the broader dynamics occurring in their external environment.
How might this be described?
These Boards have at least one key aspect in common. They all seem to have Directors who have undergone ‘cognitive shifting’. In other words, Boards with Directors that have the ability to adapt to changes in their organisation’s operating environment.
Cognitive flexibility in essence is a responsive way of thinking. Directors who switch their thinking or change their mind or are capable of holding multiple concepts at the same time are ones seeking to be in rhythm with their organisation’s operating environment. These Directors have all demonstrated cognitive flexibility.
It was F. Scott Fitzgerald who said, “The test of a first-rate intelligence is the ability to hold two opposed ideas in mind at the same time and still retain the ability to function.”
Why is Cognitive Shifting not the Norm?
The potential limitations or blockers for cognitive shifting critically involve 3 elements:
- Routine
- Bias and
- Information overload.
The Relevance of Cognitive Shifting for Boards
Directors who are comfortable in adapting their behaviour and thoughts to any of new, changing, or unexpected events are in sync with environmental change patterns.
The skill of navigating transitions throughout life is the ability to evolve a shift in your cognitive set. It is about feeling confident in moving from one or more mindsets, perspectives, ideas, settings, activities, or routines, to another one or more.
This shift is a reality check. It recognises that whatever was done in the pa