Technical Problems vs. Adaptive Challenges
Before trying to solve a problem, it's important to understand and identify what type of problem you're facing. A wise man (A.K.A Ronald Heifetz) once said, "the single biggest failure of leadership is to treat adaptive challenges like technical problems."
So what's the difference between the two? Here's a quick overview.
TECHNICAL PROBLEM: When you break your arm, it's a technical problem. You know what you need to do (go to the emergency room) and who will help you fix it (a doctor).
ADAPTIVE CHALLENGE: When you have a heart attack, it's a little more complicated. The first step is similar in that you'll need to go to the emergency room and be treated by a doctor. That part is technical, but what comes after that is an adaptive challenge. To reduce the chance of it happening again you'll likely have to make some big changes. You'll probably need to change your lifestyle (what you eat, how often you exercise, minimize stress) and many other people will be involved (your family, friends, other specialists, work/job, etc).
Nature Unplugged Through an Adaptive Leadership Lens:
Is over connection to technology and disconnection from nature a technical problem, an adaptive challenge, or both? Seems like it's both to us... There are some quick tweaks and fixes that solve a few of the issues that come up in our work, but in general this is a complex issue with no clear, singular solution that works for everyone.
Explore this more with us by listening to our most recent episode where we discuss what makes this such a challenging issue today.
Weekly Challenge!
30 Minute Reflection: What makes this an adaptive challenge for you? Are there changes you'd like to make, but shy away from because of the potential for negative impact with your family, friends or work? Are there little fixes/tweaks that you've made to your routine that have been impactful? Think about these concepts and write down your thoughts and ideas.
