In a world characterised by relentless disruption and rapid change, the ability to innovate and adapt has become paramount for individuals and organisations alike.
The ALTO Board invited Matthew Syed, renowned author of bestselling book Rebel Ideas – The Power of Diverse Thinking, multiple awards-winning journalist at The Times and popular presenter on BBC Radio 4, to deliver the keynote speech. ALTO also booked Matthew Syed Consulting to deliver a highly engaging and practical follow-on workshop based on the themes from Matthew’s books and speech.
In his keynote Matthew shed light on the key principles behind building a growth mindset and embracing diverse thinking to unlock human potential. Drawing on examples from various fields, he emphasises the significance of these concepts in navigating the challenges of our ever-evolving world.
The Power of Mindset
Syed’s insights into the power of mindset provide a foundation for personal and organisational growth. He distinguishes between a fixed mindset, which clings to the status quo and fears failure, and a growth mindset, which embraces change, learns from mistakes, and continually evolves. By fostering a growth mindset, individuals and teams can develop a more resilient approach to challenges, turning setbacks into opportunities for growth.
Why Diversity Matters
Diverse thinking is another crucial aspect of achieving excellence in any field. Syed asserts that diverse teams, comprising individuals with varied experiences, expertise, and perspectives, outperform homogenous ones when tackling complex problems. By incorporating diverse thinking, organisations gain a competitive edge and become more adept at addressing the multifaceted challenges of our times.
Interactive Workshop sessions by Matthew Syed Consulting
The workshop delved into practical strategies for implementing growth mindset and diverse thinking in organisations and included:
1., Shifting from Fixed to Growth Mindset: the workshop session underscored how adopting a growth mindset can improve individual and team performance, leading to more agile and innovative organisations.
Small group exercise for participants to collect examples of FIXED mindset language
Too complicated… We’re not ready… Let’s not take that risk… If it works for them, it doesn’t mean it works for us… No one else does it that way… We tried that before and it didn’t work… Will never get the budget for that… Some people will be uncomfortable with that… It’s not in my job description
Small group exercise for participants to collect examples of GROWTH mindset language
How can we do it differently?… I believe in you!… Let’s keep an open mind… I’ll learn it… Is there another way to do it?… Better try and fail than not try at all… Let’s do focus groups… How can we make that work?… How could we reallocate?… Unless you ask you won’t get it… Ask others’ opinions… You don’t need to worry about it
2., Language and Behaviour: an interactive exercise enabled participants to create a roadmap for adopting language and behaviours that support growth mindset and diverse thinking, promoting a culture of continuous learning and adaptation.
3., Incorporating Growth Mindset and Diverse Thinking: During the interactive sessions ALTO members learnt practical ways to incorporate growth mindset and diverse thinking into team habits and processes, such as
- stepping out of comfort zones
- seeking alternative perspectives
- embracing “what if?” thinking
By adopting these principles, we can unlock our true potential, enhance our capacity to adapt and innovate, and chart a path to enduring success in an ever-evolving world.
Over the past 13 years of ALTO hosting professional development sessions, our members have consistently appreciated the outstanding calibre of speakers that the association invites to its events. We’ve been fortunate to host several remarkable presenters, and Matthew Syed’s recent presentation will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the most exceptional, as well as the engaging and interactive session by MSC’s Facilitators Nazia and Charlie.
If you don’t currently hold membership with us but you think you would benefit from our professional development and idea exchange with fellow leaders, contact us for more information.
