Organisational Wisdom

We're taught to pay attention in class and focus our minds at work. And indeed a host of studies have shown that people who can focus well tend to be good at analytical problems and often have higher IQ. But is concentration all it's cracked up to be? Research on "mind wandering" has found that those who "zone out" are often better at solving problems requiring flexible thinking. Research has also shown that people in a relaxed state are more likely to find creative solutions to word puzzles. So instead of forcing yourself to concentrate when a deadline looms, it may be better to loosen your grip and take a quick break. And stay away from coffee - caffiene focuses your concentration and is likely to keep a lid on your creative thinking! Find out more here

In their 2011 book, "Beyond Performance: How Great Organizations Build Ultimate Competitive Advantage" , Scott Keller and Colin Price argue that "when there are improvements in the effectiveness of our organizations - these gains translate into benefits for society as a whole". The wisdom of organisation - of people working together toward a common goal - is that it enhances the capability of the human race to innovate, discover, create, establish, and advance in ways that individuals alone cannot achieve. The key is to focus on the leadership thinking  of your organisation - the ability to align, execute, and communicate with others. Focusing on how you organise is just as important as focussing on  what  you do - the traditional drivers of business performance. Find out more here