When I stop to think about what has happened I increase my learning. Thus, reflection produces insight that can be used later.
The Precept Explained
When facing a challenge, what do I draw from for answers?
Hopefully, I draw from past experiences and the learning from those experiences. Some experiences will have been good, but some experiences bad. But, I can learn from either.
Ok, so far so good.
Reflection Produces Insight
Now, what’s the process for converting any type of experience into useful insights?
Unsurprisingly, Proverbs 2.11 identifies purposeful reflection as a great source of insight generation.
In context, I combine reflection with a willingness to listen. Plus, I desire to understand and execute on the basics.
Most specifically, in Proverbs 2.11 we see deep thoughtfulness producing experiential insight. In turn, that insight leads to wise behavior.
So, I’m asking on a regular basis “What happened?” And, “What can I learn from this?”
Hence, I properly identify the facts in a situation. Then, I dig to understand the underlying implications and motivations.
As a result, I’m better prepared to address future challenges because of the experiential insights (see below) I’ve gained.
Leadership Insight
For a leader, reflection tends to be a trailing-edge indicator. That is, I’m looking back to pull learning from something that’s already happened.
Conversely, seeking wise counsel is one way to build insight on the front end, prior to making a decision. Running possible outcome scenarios is another leading-edge indicator.
However, regardless of the method used, insight building is hard work that assumes I’m willing to listen and to change.
Actually, impactful leadership is marked by a learner’s attitude. It accepts insights as a way to augment incomplete knowledge.
Now, what if I don’t form this habit of reflection? Well then, I should expect to hear “What were you thinking?” from peers and superiors alike.
Apply This Today!
Impactful leaders are good at asking “What just happened?” because it’s a regular part of their daily schedule.
If I’m too busy to block time for strategy formulation and reflection then I’m doing a poor job of time allocation as a leader.
Now, you ask your boss to consider something and they blow-back with an immediate answer. So, either the suggestion was shallow or the boss isn’t reflective!
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