Let’s reflect on the value of variety for avoiding blind spots. For this, we’ll explore some barriers we face when encountering different viewpoints. We’ll practice ways to change perspectives & build on others’ opinions. And we’ll take a look at how small changes in attitude can benefit all of us.

There will be input on general foundations for healthy & productive teams, like psychological safety & having a “good mix” (e.g. in culture, function & gender). We’ll also develop ways to ensure that these rich inputs are applied to a common goal.

Maximum number of participants: 25

Target Audience: Leaders, Developers, Managers, Teamplayers
Prerequisites: Curiosity and willingness to challenge one's own habits
Level: Basic

Extended Abstract:
Some of us have been privileged enough to usually have their voice heard, when they spoke up. That often happened at the price of others not being listened to, their needs and opinions being disrespected and the effects on their wellbeing being ignored. These injustices have been committed across vocations, generations, intentions and cultures. One common denominator for these wrongs is the inability to change perspective. So, let’s start by flexing and training that muscle!

As an introduction to my workshop I will give some input on how I define a healthy team. To me, this has to do with psychological safety and including different views. I will speak about some factors that determine and enable psychological safety, basically that it is safe to show yourself vulnerable. Once we can bring our authentic selves to the table, we need to be seen. This in turn requires the others to be able to change perspective. If we don’t achieve this, we will always risk having huge blind spots, as our own experiences, skills, opinions and backgrounds determine how we perceive our environment.

I will demonstrate the effect of having blind spots with 2-3 fun exercises and reflect the learnings with the participants. We will map this with findings from research on how our cultural backgrounds shape our perception.

In creativity and innovation, we use a range of tools that help people consider different perspectives and look at problems from several angles. I will share some examples and discuss the benefits they bring and how these can be applied outside of creativity workshops.

Then I will outline three concepts I apply in my work: separating different types of thinking, unconditional appreciation and appreciative inquiry. The participants will apply this in an interactive simulation which involves stating an opinion, changing perspective and reflecting on the effects of this.

Finally, I will provide some insights from the field of creativity on how to train our ability to change perspectives and what evaluation and judgment do to our flexibility and our capacity for inclusion.

If the situation warrants it (and the participants wish for it), I will include suggestions how to incorporate the workshop learnings for remote settings.

You will learn

1. why teams need psychological safety and a “good mix” to be healthy,
2. to watch out for some barriers to open minded and inclusive habits and
3. how to train your abilities to change perspectives and be more inclusive.