There are ways to think and challenge your mind that can help you be a better leader, according to www.fastcompany.com. Following are three “mind games” to set you on this path.
- Play “What If?” by thinking about unusual things that could happen. Then, you think about what you should do about it. This tactic is good for preparing your mind for what otherwise might surprise you, such as a crisis.
- Play “If/then” to identify a situation or something that could happen. It could be simple, such as “If it’s raining outside…,” or more complex, such as “If two of my team members get COVID-19 at the same time…” Then, figure out how to respond.
- The “WOOP” method is formally known as “mental contrasting” and will help you test the feasibility of your goals and determine how to achieve them. The steps are:
- Wish: Determine your goal
- Outcome: Describe what it will look, feel or sound like when you achieve your goal—either the complete end goal or something you must achieve along the way.
- Obstacle: What do you have to do or what stands in the way of you achieving your goal?
- Plan: How will you overcome that obstacle? You may find the obstacle is more than you can handle or may develop a potential plan for handling it.
You do not have to play these mind games by yourself. Involving other people, especially your team members, can help raise issues and generate ideas. It also is a good way for team members to get to know each other and work together.
