Wendy Smith - Both/And Thinking Part 2

The Innovation Show

In this episode, we are joined again by Wendy Smith,

co-author of 'Both/And Thinking: Embrace Creative Tensions to Solve Your Toughest Problems.'

Wendy elaborates on the nuances between dilemmas, paradoxes, and tensions, emphasising that these terms are not interchangeable and revealing the psychological and practical implications of recognising and navigating paradoxes. Drawing from her personal experiences and research, Wendy illustrates how both/and thinking can be applied to career decisions, organisational challenges, and broader societal issues. She discusses the limitations of either/or thinking and the harmful patterns it can create, such as intensification, overcorrection, and polarisation.

Using examples from companies like Lego and Gore, Wendy shows how balancing tradition and innovation, centralisation and decentralisation, and other competing demands can lead to more sustainable success. The conversation also delves into the four types of paradoxes: learning, performing, organising, and belonging, and explores strategies to manage these tensions effectively.

This episode is essential for anyone facing complex decisions in their personal or professional life.

00:00 Introduction to Both/And Thinking

00:12 Understanding Tensions and Dilemmas

03:08 Defining Paradox and Its Importance

05:23 Embracing Paradoxes in Real Life

08:00 Conditions That Highlight Paradoxes

16:51 Exploring the Four Types of Paradoxes

23:28 Navigating Organisational Paradoxes

31:23 The Paradox System Framework

36:57 Lego's Journey Through Paradox

45:40 Conclusion and Further Resources

Find Wendy here: https://bothandthinking.net/book/

And on Substack here: https://wendyksmith.substack.com

Wendy Smith, Both and Thinking, Aidan McCullen, innovation, paradox, decision making, leadership, career challenges, tension management, creativity, organisational behaviour, success, problem solving, conflict resolution