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Forbes
7 days ago
- Business
- Forbes
Stare Decisis To Foresight: A Legal Mindset For The AI-Era World
Gear symbols on the head shape. Antonyms. We live in an age of constant, accelerating, and converging change. It is challenging human capacity to adapt--a 21st century edition of 'Future Shock.' That applies equally to individuals and organizations. What separates those that adapt to change and see it as an opportunity from others who are overwhelmed by it and mired in stasis? Mindset is a key factor. It is the prism through which human behavior is filtered. Mindset influences decision making, risk tolerance, curiosity, collaboration, learning, and other important life and career influencers. Carol Dweck, a Stanford University psychologist, divided mindset into two distinct camps in Mindset: The New Psychology of Success. A fixed mindset, according to Dweck, sees capabilities and conditions as static, prioritizing risk avoidance and stability over creativity and exploration. A growth mindset, in contrast, embraces learning, experimentation, and the pursuit of improvement. Despite the controversy around its findings, it is still useful to see mindset in two categories with the caveat that each has gradations. Mindset matters now more than ever. In a real-time, AI-enabled business environment marked by speed, complexity, interconnected risk, and uncertainty, a flexible, forward-thinking mindset has become a requisite to navigate change. Responsible, informed, and creative deployment of AI, data, and other tools is an important element of a growth mindset. So too is developing what Accenture calls a 'digital core' (data, AI, and cloud competency). Teamwork, a shared sense of purpose, curiosity, constant learning, informed experimentation, and a culture that values and supports these attributes, are additional characteristics of a forward-thinking mindset. Research has shown that alignment of mindsets—whether in personal relationships or business—is linked to better outcomes. John Gottman, an American psychologist known for his data-based studies on divorce prediction and marital stability, found that couples who create 'shared meaning'—a common vision of goals and values—are far less likely to divorce. Similarly, research on relational 'growth mindsets' reveals that people who believe relationships can improve with work tend to handle conflict better and maintain higher relationship satisfaction over time. Business offers strikingly parallel findings. Companies that align their mindset and culture around learning, experimentation, and shared vision consistently outperform less adaptive competitors. McKinsey research found that agile organizations deliver ~40% higher total shareholder returns over five years compared to their peers A BCG study revealed that companies with strong adaptive cultures are nearly twice as likely to succeed in digital transformations. Multiple studies have shown that alignment of mindset is a fundamental driver of long-term success. Law and business have divergent mindsets. The 'mindset gap' separating them has widened dramatically during the past quarter century. The divergence is a tale of different responses to a rapidly changing business, geopolitical, and macroeconomic environment. Business has adapted a growth mindset; the legal industry has remained rooted in its fixed mindset and culture. The 'mindset gap' separating law and business adversely impacts not only the legal industry but also business, and society. It diminishes the legal function's efficacy and dilutes its potential enterprise value by narrowing legal's sphere of influence to 'legal' matters rather than expanding its imprint across the many business units law intersects with. It also undercuts enterprise transformation by failing to leverage legal's strategic and problem-solving capabilities and institutional knowledge to create business value. Perhaps most importantly, law's mindset gap has deprived society of an accessible, affordable, fit-for-purpose legal function. This has produced an erosion of public trust in the legal profession, its institutions, the rule of law, and democracy. That negatively impacts commerce, the economy, business, commercial transactions, judicial resolution of disputes, and human rights. What are the causes of the business-law mindset gap, and how can their divergence be bridged to create a legal function that better serves business and society in an AI-enabled world? These important questions have received insufficient attention, perhaps because they principally involve the human side of transformation more than technology. Paradoxically, rapid technological advances—notably AI—have elevated, not marginalized, human qualities that separate us from machines. Soft 'skills (empathy, curiosity, creativity, teamwork) have long been undervalued by the fixed mindset and culture of the legal industry. A spate of psychological studies have found that soft skills are much harder to teach than technical or procedural ones. The takeaway is that for many in the current legal workforce, the transition to a team and customer-oriented mindset will be difficult. EY conducted a study that revealed more than 50% of GC's surveyed reported that legal culture and resistance to change is the greatest obstacle to modernization. Thomson Reuters conducted a similar study that echoed the EY findings, concluding that culture and change resistance eclipse budget and technology gaps as the principal change retardants. The transformation of business during the past quarter century is the story line of the mindset gap with law. This column has long maintained that legal transformation is a business story. Business, especially industry leaders, are well down the path of the transformation journey. The legal function—excepting an expanding number of in-house teams—is just beginning. Business has created a blueprint for legal transformation. It starts with mindset and culture. The Business Mindset Transformation Until the turn of the Millenium, most businesses had a fixed mindset. It was rooted in tradition and past practice, relying on proven models, standard operating procedure, and industry best practices to reduce risk and promote consistency. Adaptation usually took a back seat to stability in a world where change occurred more gradually, the speed of business (and life) was considerably slower, and technology had not yet created what author/journalist Tom Friedman described as a flat world. As Lou Reed noted in a different context, 'those were different times.' The last quarter century has exposed the limitations of a fixed mindset in a rapidly changing world and marketplace. Business has confronted a constant, escalating array of interconnected challenges. A sampling includes: rapid technological advances industry disruptors and asymmetrical competition transitioning from an analog to a digital world (digital transformation) globalization- then its collision with nationalism 9/11 the global economic crisis Covid-19 social media state-sponsored armed conflicts, terrorist attacks, domestic terrorism, etc cyber breaches geopolitical and geoeconomic shifts polarization (social, economic, and political) climate change mass migration data explosion artificial intelligence (its challenges and opportunities). Business recognized these interconnected challenges posed an existential threat, one that could not be extinguished-- much less turned into opportunity--by a fixed mindset and strict adherence to what had worked in the past. This spelled the end to 'business as usual.' Mindset and cultural shifts do not come quickly or easily, nor can they be effected by fiat. The journey begins with leadership providing a clearly articulated strategy that explains the 'why' of transformation. It is systematically reinforced until there is widespread buy-in across the enterprise. Transformation is a team sport, one that requires shared purpose, goals, and an ethos that 'the whole is greater than the sum of its parts.' The transition to a more humane mindset and culture requires tough human decisions; not everyone in the workforce can or will adapt, even when afforded the opportunity and tools to do starts with human adaptation, not with technology. The latter creates opportunities to change and seize opportunity by creating new business structures, economic models, and ways to elevate customer outcomes and experience. The workforce—and that includes the business's supply chain and strategic partners-- determines the success of the adaptation journey by its willingness and ability to adapt. Only then can technology be creatively, responsibly, and usefully applied to internal reorganization that produces better customer outcomes and experience. Fostering a growth mindset is key to individual and collective success. Top performing businesses recognized early on that investment in the workforce—upskilling, purpose, collaboration, etc.—is an essential component of successful transformation. Reimagining talent in a rapidly changing environment is critical, and so too is investment in upskilling and cultural reformation. Google, for example, launched Project Aristotle, a research initiative focused on what makes teams effective. The study analyzed data from hundreds of teams over several years. It concluded that psychological safety was the crucial element of team success. This underscores the importance of humanity in the transformation journey. Microsoft provides another example how mindset and culture can drive success. When Satya Nadella became the tech giant's CEO in 2014, the company was in a trough. Nadella championed a growth mindset and cultural shift focused on learning, collaboration, and cloud-first innovation. This gradually replaced the siloed, internally combative culture that Nadella inherited. The mindset and cultural shift paid off; it produced a dramatic turnaround in Microsoft's market value and brand, a trajectory that continues more than a decade later. Mindset and culture are closely connected. Culture is forged by aligned mindsets that share, reinforce, and institutionalize their values, practices, and goals across the group. Culture is an amalgam of how a group identifies itself and what it stands for. Social cohesion and progress are largely determined by how widely a unified mindset is achieved. Leadership's ability to forge a culture of shared understanding, purpose, teamwork, and goals is critical. This--like other human elements of transformation-- is especially true during periods of rapid, interconnected change. A growth mindset supports a holistic, proactive approach to risk management and uncertainty. Risk can be managed, because, to channel Peter Drucker, it can be measured. Uncertainty, however, cannot be measured, and--like risk-- there is a great deal of it in the current business environment. Top performing companies have embraced and invested in foresight to anticipate and prepare for uncertainty. Foresight includes identifying signals that portend change, scenarios planning, and critical thinking applied to 'connecting the dots,' among other types of horizon scanning. Scenarios planning is not new; Shell pioneered it back in the 1970's. The foresight tools that can now be applied--predictive analytics, scenario AI-driven forecasting, and the like have become more powerful, enabling businesses that use them effectively not only to anticipate change but also to turn it into strategic advantage. Those tools are also available to competitors; mindsets and cultures are key factors in what separates leaders from laggards. Data supports the marked divergence of enterprise mindset and culture separating companies that fail from those that succeed. WatchMyCompetitor, an AI-powered competitive intelligence platform, conducted research on why companies decline. It reported more than half (52%) of the companies in the Fortune 500 list in 2003 no longer exist today, and 72% of the original 1984 FTSE 100 companies are now gone. The takeaway is clear: in today's world, business must adapt or confront obsolescence. The study identified six common reasons for corporate decline: All six failure elements relate to mindset and culture. Technology accelerates and enables change. Human adaptation—a growth mindset, forward thinking culture, and aligned, agile, fluid, team-oriented, integrated, and creatively curious workforce seizes opportunity from change. Law's Retrospective Mindset and Culture The legal profession/industry has a deeply rooted, fixed mindset. It is embodied by stare decisis, a legal principle of judicial adherence to past decisions. The rationale is to promote stability, consistency, and fairness. Law's mindset, culture, criteria for guild admission, pedagogy, hierarchical organizational structure, pyramidal economic model, pedagogy, and linear career trajectory evidence its adherence to the past. Legal language (a/k/a 'legalese') is abstruse and chock full of Latin terms, evocative of its strong ancestral ties. The legal guild constructed a language designed for itself, thereby separating lawyers from 'non-lawyers. This purposeful distancing from clients and society-at-large is emblematic of the myth of legal exceptionalism as well as the reality of legal insularity and separatism. Law's anachronistic rituals-- court proceedings where judges sit on elevated platforms, gowns, wigs, and other symbols of pomp and ceremony, are not intended to be inviting or to put 'outsiders' at ease. Law is a people and persuasion business, but everything about it creates the opposite effect for non-guild members. Legal culture has rewarded cultural compliance, risk-aversion, and an artisanal approach to problem solving-- no matter its correlation to client value. The legal profession has offered lip service to 'partnering with clients,' 'cutting edge technology,' and 'investing in our most important asset, our people.' This is belied by high turnover (especially law firms), client dissatisfaction, the migration of work from law firms to in-house corporate teams, and law's ambivalent embrace and negligible investment in technology and training. Law schools, likewise, retain a fixed mindset. Their doctrinal emphasis, siloed study of core subjects (rather than an integrated approach that reflects the realities of practice), elevation of issue identification over problem solving, and faculties thin on practice experience and/or marketplace awareness are out-of-synch with the evolving role and purpose of the legal function in a rapidly changing marketplace. Legal education is about rote learning and spotting issues, not understanding concepts, drawing connections, and creatively applying them to problem solving. Customer/client relationship building, the service component of legal delivery, and a multidisciplinary approach to problem solving are also lacking in law schools. The traditional law firm partnership structure and hierarchical, labor-intensive economic model have survived and thrived for generations. Firms have prospered as business has consolidated, grown, and transformed. Regulation and compliance has become more onerous and complex, litigation (particularly in the US) has continued its upward spend trajectory, business has faced new risks and greater uncertainty, and technology has spun off new practice areas. The global legal services market was $300B in 2000; it is currently estimated at $1T. Partner profits, especially among twenty or so 'elite' firms that handle the lion's share of high value M&A and litigation work, are at an all-time high. So too are firm rates, margins, and partner profits far outpacing the broader economy. Their corporate clients have transformed, but law firms have been under little pressure to do the same. Why, then, are so many legal leaders so concerned about the future? Spoiler alert: business has already quietly begun to transform the legal function from within, focusing on reimaging the in-house legal function. Concurrently, AI is poised to accelerate that process and deliver the coup de gras to the law firm partnership model. That will transform the legacy delivery paradigm by eliminating the economic friction between corporate legal teams and firms. It will also accelerate the creation of new AI-first corporate provider sources that can 'productize'—and customize— faster, better, cheaper' legal products and services at scale. Those products and services will extend beyond the narrow parameters of 'legal' issues and include risk management, regulatory and compliance, IP, cybersecurity, corporate governance, etc. Business has been conducting a skunk-works transformation of its in-house legal teams for years. It is changing the corporate legal team's role, remit, metrics, composition, and talent mix. The goals are not only to save on outside legal spend, but also to extract the latent potential of legal to create value for the enterprise and enhance customer outcomes and experience. The author has dubbed in-house teams 'law's astronauts.' They operate within a corporate environment, are increasingly aligned with business purpose, goals, metrics, and customer-centricity, and are increasingly operating cross-functionally and proactively. In-house portfolios are expanding and more complex, even as their budgets and headcounts are shrinking. A response to this squeeze necessitates doing things differently and developing a growth mindset. Business has not directly shaped or managed this process, but it has created an environment where CLO's and GC's must do things differently. In-house teams have become (albeit to varying degrees) proactive, strategic, tech-enabled, data-backed, value-oriented, and results-driven. Most importantly, the in-house legal function is becoming integrated with the business and its customers. To effect this transformation has necessitated in-house teams to adapt to the speed, complexity, risk, uncertainty, and competing stakeholder expectations of business. That has, in turn, required a change in the in-house mindset, culture, and perception of legal's purpose and role in digital/AI-era business and society. In-house legal teams' alignment with corporate objectives and collaboration with various business units demonstrates that legal can operate in a corporate environment without ceding its professional independence. The expansion of the in-house team's enterprise role has been accompanied by a shift in market share allocation. In 2000, companies typically sourced 70-80% of legal work to law firms. Corporate teams now account for 54% of all legal spend. The remaining balance goes to law firms, ALSP's, consultancies, and an array of other niche providers. The gradual shift in market share is about to become sudden. AI will drive a spike through the law firm economic model, hollowing out the bottom and middle levels of its pyramid. This will be accompanied by a shift from output (value) as the billing basis, not input (hours). That will open the door to the integration of all legal product and services providers and end the economic, mindset, and cultural divide separating in-house teams and their supply chain. The stage has been set for a true structural paradigm change in legal delivery, one where provider sources are integrated across the supply chain. That is business-driven legal transformation. It does not spell the end of law firms, but it means that they will be very different than they are today. AI is the greatest-- but by no means the only—challenge facing the leadership of traditional law firms. Forrester, a market research group, projects that almost 80 percent of jobs in the legal sector will be significantly reshaped by AI technology. A 2023 Goldman Sachs report on the effects of AI on economic growth, indicates that 44 percent of legal tasks could be automated using AI tools. While the percentages relate to tasks, not jobs, mindset change will be required to adjust to ongoing upskilling as well as to new structures, models, workforces, and ways of delivering legal products and services. The challenge of transition is elevated because it is accompanied by increased workloads, headcount reduction, and elevated business and customer expectations. Firm leaders are also confronting other issues related to their legacy firm structure and model. A partial list includes: the generational divide separating older and younger partners, a dearth of AI-native talent, peripatetic partners, and brand differentiation (apart from a handful of elite firms) It's little wonder why firm leaders have agita. Last year's law firm profits may be up for many large corporate law firms, but so too is uncertainty about the sustainability of their economic model. Another indication of the model's fragility is white-hot PE interest in the long dormant legal industry (a positive and negative development for firms), What will the legal marketplace look like when AI becomes an integral component of strategic planning and delivery? Whether that will happen is no longer in question. When it does is anyone's guess (smart money is betting sooner than you think). One thing is clear: what has passed for 'legal transformation' to date will pale compared with what is about to unfold. Recommendations For Legal Mindset And Cultural Adaptation The following recommendations are a sampling, not an exhaustive list, of issues to be considered. While the focus is on the corporate segment of the legal market, the recommendations apply equally to the retail (people) part. The latter is grossly underserved and presents an enormous opportunity to 'do good and do well.' Conclusion Change no longer occurs over centuries, generations, or decades; it is constant. The time separating present from future has been compressed. That is creating new risks and greater uncertainty, as well as opportunities that precedent, best practices, and fixed mindsets alone can no longer address. Clayton Christensen, the father of disruptive innovation theory, captured the zeitgeist of 21st century business: 'Best practices are a great way to institutionalize what you know. But they're also a great way to institutionalize ignorance if you don't keep revisiting them.' The legal function must balance stare decisis with a growth mindset and culture in synch with digital/AI-era business and society. To do so requires that it reimagine itself and what it delivers—as business has--to meet the needs of end-users of its products and services. It must engage in the same reverse-engineering process that business has embarked on. These are blueprints the legal industry can borrow from and, as Christensen admonishes, 'keep revisiting them.' Curiosity, creativity, constant learning, thoughtful experimentation, foresight, agility, and an empathetic team orientation are key attributes of an AI-era legal function. They must be accompanied by a holistic focus on business, societal, and global developments, particularly macroeconomic, sociopolitical, and other forces that are reshaping life and business. A legal function with this mindset and culture will once again attract 'the best and the brightest' to it from multiple fields. It will reclaim its purpose, elevate its standing, and better serve business and society in real-time, AI-era world.
India Today
21-07-2025
- Health
- India Today
We are what we think: How to rewire the brain, change our future
Our lives are greatly attached to our thoughts. In many cases, our experiences, reactions and choices may not be determined by what is happening exteriorly but what we tell ourselves. Luckily, neuroplasticity of the brain—its capacity to restructure itself by creating new cell connections—provides us the ability to alter these stories. Anurag Rishi, holistic wellness coach and founder of Anurag Wellness Movement, shares five ways to rewire thinking and encourage personal development:Challenge limiting beliefs: Most of us have deep-seated notions that limit us. For instance, 'I am not good enough' or 'I always fail' or 'I do not deserve success'. Once we become aware of these limiting beliefs, the next step is to question them. We can start changing our mental paradigm by questioning their validity and substituting them with some empowering alternatives. As an example, changing 'I cannot deal with challenges' to 'I am learning to deal with challenges resiliently' creates room to mindful awareness: Mindfulness allows us to view our thoughts in a non-judgmental way. By being mindful of the habits that play in the background of our minds, we can intercept before the old/unhelpful reactions occur. Mindfulness through breathing, keeping a journal or reflecting on the day are simple practices that can keep us out of the negative loop and into making a conscious decision rather than an automated a growth mindset: Growth mindset, a term created by American psychologist Carol Dweck, promotes the view that abilities can be improved through hard work and education. The process of rewiring starts as soon as we change—say, for instance, 'I cannot do this' to 'I cannot do this yet'. This change encourages curiosity, grit and the willingness to self-improvement. Visualise the positive: Daydreaming is not the same as visualisation because the latter is a focused method of teaching the brain to be successful. When we continuously visualise ourselves completing a difficult task or managing stress in a beautiful way or accomplishing our dreams, we condition the brain to attract and identify opportunities that are in line with these yourself with positive influences: The surroundings have a great impact on how we think. Positive thinking can be strengthened by spending time with inspiring, challenging and supporting people. Books, podcasts and growth-fostering conversations serve as a constant reminder of the mindset we are trying to our thought patterns is neither instant nor effortless, but with consistent practice, the transformation can be profound. Personal growth begins with the decision to think differently—and that decision lies within all of to India Today Magazine- Ends
Yahoo
15-07-2025
- General
- Yahoo
14 Signs Someone Has No Common Sense At All
When you encounter someone who seems to lack common sense, it can be a head-scratching experience. We all have those moments when logic takes a backseat, but for some, it seems like common sense never gets in the car at all. From puzzling decisions to baffling behaviors, these are the tell-tale signs that someone might not have received their fair share of everyday smarts. Here's a rundown of the clear indicators, so you can spot the absence of common sense from a mile away. You know those people who don't wear seatbelts, not because they're protesting, but simply because they "forgot"? This is a classic sign of lacking common sense. Safety precautions are in place for a reason, and ignoring them is like inviting trouble to your doorstep. It's hard to understand how someone can overlook the importance of something so fundamental. According to Dr. David Ropeik, a risk communication expert, failing to take basic safety measures reflects a misunderstanding of risk vs. reward. Then there are those who handle hot cookware without potholders or try to fix electrical problems with minimal knowledge. Common sense acts as a natural barrier against preventable accidents, and when it's not present, the results can be painful or even dangerous. People who repeatedly find themselves in these situations may not be naturally cautious. It's as if they're constantly testing Murphy's Law, not realizing that the odds are not in their favor. Their casual approach to safety may seem baffling to the rest of us who prefer to avoid unnecessary harm. You've seen them in public, those who are perpetually absorbed in their phones, oblivious to the world around them. They'll walk into glass doors or bump into other pedestrians without a second thought. This lack of situational awareness is a clear sign of missing common sense. It shows a disconnection from their environment, which can lead to awkward or even dangerous situations. Paying attention to one's surroundings is a basic aspect of functioning in society, after all. Without this awareness, these people may often find themselves in embarrassing predicaments. Whether it's talking loudly in quiet spaces or standing still in the middle of a bustling sidewalk, their actions often reflect a self-centered perspective. They seem surprised when others react with frustration or annoyance, failing to see the bigger picture. Awareness is a fundamental aspect of common sense that guides our interactions with the world. Those without it often seem to operate in their own bubble, disconnected from those around them. One of the clearest signs of absent common sense is the inability to learn from past mistakes. People who repeatedly touch a hot stove—or figuratively burn themselves in similar scenarios—demonstrate this trait. It's like watching a rerun of a bad sitcom; they never learn, and you always know what's coming next. Dr. Carol Dweck, a psychologist known for her work on mindset, highlights that people with a growth mindset learn from experiences, which seems lacking here. Their repetitive blunders suggest a lack of reflection or self-awareness. Imagine someone who constantly locks themselves out of the house, yet never considers a spare key. This recurring pattern shows they aren't connecting actions with consequences. It's as if they hit the "reset" button on their memory each time they make the same error. They might shrug it off as bad luck or simply forgetfulness, but in reality, it shows a lack of self-improvement. Common sense often involves learning from the school of hard knocks, something these folks seem to repeatedly skip. People without common sense often struggle to see things from someone else's point of view. They tend to push their own agenda without considering the impact on others. This lack of empathy can lead to social faux pas and strained relationships. It's important to remember that everyone experiences the world differently, and a little understanding goes a long way. Ignoring others' perspectives often results in unnecessary conflict and tension. They might interrupt conversations or make decisions that benefit only themselves. This self-focused mindset can make them appear dismissive or inconsiderate. While they might not intend any harm, their actions can still hurt others. It's a classic case of not thinking things through and not considering the broader implications of their behavior. Interpersonal relationships often rely on mutual understanding, which is hard to achieve without common sense. When facing a simple problem, people lacking common sense may bypass the most straightforward solutions. Instead of identifying the root cause, they might jump to conclusions or apply random fixes. This approach often exacerbates the issue rather than resolving it effectively. Problem-solving requires a logical sequence of steps, which seems absent in their strategy. Dr. Edward de Bono, an expert in creative thinking, emphasizes the importance of structured thinking to avoid such pitfalls. Picture this: they spend hours trying to fix a TV that's not plugged in. It's the kind of situation that makes you want to facepalm. By not taking a step-by-step approach, they often waste time and resources on easy-to-solve issues. This oversight can be frustrating for those around them who see the clear solution. A little common sense goes a long way in problem-solving, yet it seems elusive for some. People who lack common sense often exhibit inconsistent behavior that leaves others bewildered. One day, they might adhere strictly to rules, and the next, they completely disregard them. This unpredictable nature can be confusing for those around them, who find it hard to understand their motivations. Consistency is a hallmark of reliable reasoning, which seems to be missing here. Unpredictable actions can make interactions challenging and trust difficult to establish. Their fluctuating behavior might manifest in minor ways, like changing opinions frequently without a clear reason. This inconsistency can also appear in how they approach tasks, sometimes over-preparing and other times not preparing at all. Such erratic behavior can be exhausting for everyone involved. It's as if they don't have an internal compass to guide their actions. This lack of steadiness often highlights a gap in common sense and decision-making skills. People without common sense might fail to grasp the fundamentals of time management. They often arrive late, miss deadlines, or underestimate how long tasks will take. This inability to manage time effectively can disrupt their personal and professional lives. According to time management researcher Dr. Theresa Krause, time perception skills are crucial for productivity and efficiency. It's an area where those lacking common sense may frequently falter. Their poor time management skills might lead them to overcommit, not realizing how packed their schedule really is. This can create a domino effect of delays and missed opportunities. Their intentions might be good, but their execution is usually flawed. This struggle to prioritize and allocate time properly is a clear indicator of missing practical intelligence. Common sense often includes the ability to plan and organize daily activities, which is evidently not their strong suit. Social interactions often require a subtle dance of cues and responses, something people without common sense struggle with. They might miss a friend's discomfort or fail to pick up on when a conversation is over. This inability to read social cues can lead to awkward or inappropriate engagements. It suggests a disconnect from the social norms that govern everyday interactions. Understanding these unspoken rules is a big part of common sense. Their obliviousness might result in them speaking out of turn or not realizing when they're being offensive. This lack of social awareness can make it difficult for others to feel comfortable around them. They might not even notice the awkward silence that follows their faux pas. It's not that they're trying to be difficult; they simply don't see the signals. Developing social intelligence is a critical component of common sense, which they seem to lack. People without common sense often focus on immediate gratification and ignore long-term consequences. They might prioritize short-term pleasure over long-term benefits, not foreseeing the future impact of their choices. This can lead to irresponsible decisions that they may regret later. It reflects a lack of foresight, which is a key aspect of common sense. Planning ahead and considering future outcomes is essential for sound decision-making. Whether it's overspending or neglecting responsibilities, the immediate gain often blinds them to the potential fallout. They might shrug off warnings or advice, thinking it won't affect them. Unfortunately, this short-sightedness can lead to bigger problems down the line. Their focus remains on the now, without contemplating the what-ifs of tomorrow. Common sense includes the ability to weigh present actions against future repercussions, a skill they seem to overlook. You might find people without common sense frequently misjudging basic logic. They make decisions that seem bafflingly irrational to those around them. Their conclusions might defy reason, leaving others scratching their heads. Logic and rational thinking are foundational elements of common sense, which they appear to lack. This inability to apply logic can lead to inefficient and often ridiculous outcomes. They might argue that two wrongs make a right or that correlation equals causation. It's as if their reasoning process takes unexpected detours that end in confusion. Their arguments can be convoluted, lacking coherence and clarity. It's not just about being wrong—it's about consistently reaching conclusions that defy basic principles of logic. A firm grasp of logical reasoning is an invaluable part of common sense, one that they seem to miss entirely. When faced with a simple task, people lacking common sense might overcomplicate things unnecessarily. What could be done in a few steps becomes a lengthy, drawn-out process. This inefficiency can be frustrating for those who are more straightforward in their approach. They might approach a basic cooking recipe as if it's a chemistry experiment. It's a clear sign that they struggle to discern simple solutions from complex ones. Their tendency to complicate the uncomplicated can lead to wasted time and resources. They might insist on doing things the hard way, not realizing there's a simpler path. This habit can result in frustration and confusion, both for them and those around them. It's as if they're seeking complexity where there is none, overlooking the obvious. Common sense often involves identifying efficient solutions, a skill they noticeably lack. People who lack common sense often misunderstand or disregard social norms. They might dress inappropriately for events or use language that isn't suitable for the setting. This lack of awareness about what's considered socially acceptable can lead to awkward situations. Social norms often guide much of our behavior, providing a template for acceptable conduct. Overlooking these unwritten rules can lead to misunderstandings and social friction. This misunderstanding might manifest in loud phone conversations in quiet spaces or inappropriate jokes. Their actions can make others uncomfortable, signaling a disconnect from collective societal expectations. They might not realize that these norms serve to create harmony and predictability in social interactions. While they might see themselves as free spirits, often it's seen as poor judgment by their peers. Recognizing and adhering to social norms is a key aspect of common sense, something they frequently miss. A lack of common sense is often evident in how people fail to prioritize essential tasks. They might spend hours on trivial matters while ignoring more pressing issues. This misallocation of effort suggests a lack of practical judgment. Prioritizing helps in managing resources effectively, which is a cornerstone of common sense. Without it, they can get bogged down in the minutiae, losing sight of what really matters. This might mean they focus on organizing their desk instead of meeting an important deadline. They miss the forest for the trees, sidetracked by non-essentials. It's a frustrating experience for those who rely on them to get things done. Their inability to focus on priorities can lead to inefficiencies and missed opportunities. Common sense involves knowing what to do first, a skill they clearly lack. People without common sense might frequently overestimate their own abilities. They may dive headfirst into projects without the necessary skills or knowledge. This overconfidence can lead to failure and disappointment. It's important to recognize one's limitations and work within them, which is a key part of common sense. Their inflated self-assessment often leads to biting off more than they can chew. They might volunteer for tasks they aren't equipped to handle, not realizing their limitations until it's too late. This can result in poor performance and unmet expectations. Their confidence may seem admirable at first, but it often lacks the foundation of realistic self-awareness. Understanding one's strengths and weaknesses is crucial for sound decision-making. Common sense guides people to take calculated risks, a concept they frequently misunderstand.
Forbes
09-07-2025
- Forbes
How To Use AI To Build Curiosity At Work: Inspired By 10 Classic Books
How To Use AI To Build Curiosity At Work Inspired By 10 Classic Books Isn't it ironic that the one skill AI doesn't have is the very skill it can help you develop within yourself? Artificial intelligence like ChatGPT doesn't question things just because it's curious. Yet these tools can help grow your curiosity, which makes you more adaptable, creative, and valuable at work. Research from the World Economic Forum shows curiosity is one of the top skills employers will demand soon. As AI takes over routine tasks, curiosity will separate those who get stuck from those who move forward. AI can fuel your curiosity in ways you might not expect. Here are ten practical ways, each tied to a key insight from classic curiosity-based books, to help you build your curiosity. How AI Encourages You To Ask Better Questions And Build Curiosity 1. How AI Encourages You To Ask Better Questions And Build Curiosity In Carol Dweck's book, Mindset, she shows that a growth mindset depends on embracing challenges and asking better questions to learn and improve. ChatGPT models this by pushing you beyond surface answers to discover more depth to what you intended to learn initially. For example, if you ask about improving team communication, it encourages you to consider hidden barriers and different communication styles, fostering curiosity through better questioning. Try this with ChatGPT: "I want to improve how my team communicates. What are some thoughtful questions I can ask to uncover hidden challenges and encourage open dialogue?" You'll receive prompts that help you practice framing better questions, leading to deeper conversations and solutions. How AI Builds Curiosity By Introducing Diverse Perspectives And Expanding Your Range 2. How AI Builds Curiosity By Introducing Diverse Perspectives And Expanding Your Range David Epstein's book, Range, argues that broad knowledge and diverse experiences lead to better problem-solving and creativity. ChatGPT supports this by offering insights from many disciplines, including psychology, marketing, sports, and history. It helps you connect ideas across fields and expand your curiosity. Try this with ChatGPT: "What are different leadership approaches used in sports, business, and psychology? How can these perspectives help me lead my team better?" This opens new angles and enriches your curiosity. How AI Creates A Safe Space To Explore Any Question And Grow Curiosity 3. How AI Creates A Safe Space To Explore Any Question And Grow Curiosity In Simon Sinek's book, Start With Why, he emphasizes the importance of psychological safety for asking meaningful questions. ChatGPT provides a judgment-free space where you can freely explore any question, no matter how simple or complex. This safe environment builds confidence and nurtures curiosity without social risk. Try this with ChatGPT: "Explain the concept of 'blockchain' in simple terms. What questions should I ask to understand it better for my role?" ChatGPT breaks it down and helps you identify useful follow-up questions. How AI Supports Curiosity By Helping You Try Ideas Quickly And Learn From Feedback 4. How AI Supports Curiosity By Helping You Try Ideas Quickly And Learn From Feedback David Kolb's book, Experiential Learning, emphasizes that real learning happens through a cycle of experience, reflection, and active experimentation. ChatGPT enables this process by letting you test ideas, get instant feedback, and adjust quickly. This rapid back-and-forth process mimics Kolb's learning cycle and keeps your curiosity alive by making exploration dynamic and hands-on. Try this with ChatGPT: "Here is my idea for improving our onboarding process [briefly describe]. Can you suggest improvements or potential challenges I haven't thought about?" This interactive feedback helps you refine your ideas and deepen your curiosity. How AI Builds Curiosity By Surfacing Assumptions You Didn't Notice 5. How AI Builds Curiosity By Surfacing Assumptions You Didn't Notice In Peter Senge's book, The Fifth Discipline, he highlights how challenging mental models is critical for learning. ChatGPT helps by presenting facts and examples that question your assumptions, like showing studies that contradict your beliefs about remote work. This challenges your thinking and awakens curiosity to understand why your assumptions might be flawed. Try this with ChatGPT: "Are there studies showing remote work improves productivity? What factors influence the results?" This encourages you to rethink your assumptions. How AI Builds Personalized Curiosity Tailored To Your Role And Interests 6. How AI Builds Personalized Curiosity Tailored To Your Role And Interests Angela Duckworth's book, Grit, focuses on passion and perseverance but also emphasizes working toward goals that matter personally. ChatGPT personalizes information and learning paths relevant to your job or interests, making curiosity feel meaningful and worth pursuing. Try this with ChatGPT: "What are the emerging trends in digital marketing for small businesses in 2025?" This targeted information makes curiosity easier to sustain. How AI Sparks Curiosity Through Imaginative 'What If' Scenarios 7. How AI Sparks Curiosity Through Imaginative 'What If' Scenarios Edward de Bono's book, Lateral Thinking, shows how breaking out of linear thinking stimulates innovation. ChatGPT helps you imagine 'what if' scenarios to challenge the status quo and open your mind to new ideas, key for curious exploration. Try this with ChatGPT: "What if our product was offered as a subscription service? What are the advantages and challenges we might face?" This questioning sparks creative curiosity. How AI Encourages Curiosity By Prompting Critical Thinking And Verification 8. How AI Encourages Curiosity By Prompting Critical Thinking And Verification Nassim Taleb's book, The Black Swan, underscores the limits of knowledge and the importance of questioning assumptions. Taleb points out that people often focus on what they know without questioning it, which harms critical thinking. ChatGPT's occasional inaccuracies encourage you to verify and critically evaluate information rather than accept it at face value, sharpening your curiosity to seek deeper understanding. Try this with ChatGPT: "Can you provide sources or recent studies about the impact of AI on employee productivity?" Then look up the studies yourself to deepen your understanding. How AI Builds Career Curiosity By Helping You Discover Paths You May Not Have Considered 9. How AI Builds Career Curiosity By Helping You Discover Paths You May Not Have Considered In Cal Newport's book, So Good They Can't Ignore You, he highlights exploring career options thoughtfully by building rare skills. ChatGPT helps you explore roles and skills related to your background that you may not have considered, expanding your curiosity about where your career can go. Try this with ChatGPT: "Based on my experience in project management and interest in technology, what are some emerging roles or skills I should consider?" You'll get fresh ideas to explore. How AI Builds Learning Curiosity By Making Complex Topics Easier To Start 10. How AI Builds Learning Curiosity By Making Complex Topics Easier To Start In Brené Brown's book, Dare to Lead, she speaks to vulnerability and the courage to begin. ChatGPT breaks down complex subjects simply and suggests next steps, lowering the barrier to start learning and helping curiosity flow naturally from that first brave step. Try this with ChatGPT: "I want to learn about data analytics basics. Can you explain the key concepts and recommend beginner-friendly resources?" This makes learning approachable and actionable. Curiosity Is The Skill AI Cannot Replace Curiosity Is The Skill AI Cannot Replace AI will keep getting smarter and automating more tasks. But it will never replace your curiosity. That drive to ask questions, explore ideas, and imagine possibilities is uniquely human. Using AI to grow your curiosity makes you more adaptable and valuable. Curiosity is the skill that will keep you relevant as work changes. These ten approaches, inspired by leading books, show how you can use AI to build curiosity that helps you thrive now and in the future.
Yahoo
02-07-2025
- General
- Yahoo
How To Be The Kind Of Parent Your Adult Children Want To Hang Out With
In the intricate dance of family dynamics, maintaining a strong bond with your adult children often requires a pivot. Gone are the days of parental authority; they are replaced by a friendship built on mutual respect, independence, and shared experiences. If you find yourself navigating this delicate transition, rest assured, you're not alone. Here's how to be the kind of parent your adult children genuinely enjoy spending time with — without sacrificing your own identity. Your children are no longer the little ones who needed you to guide every step. Embrace their individuality by recognizing their unique interests, even if they vastly differ from your own. By supporting their passions, you show that you value them as autonomous adults. Dr. Carol Dweck, a renowned psychologist at Stanford University, emphasizes the importance of fostering a growth mindset, which can inspire your children to continue evolving and exploring new horizons. As you encourage them to pursue their interests, remember that your support should come without conditions or expectations. It's vital to respect their life choices, even if you silently wish they had taken a different path. Focus on celebrating their milestones and achievements, no matter how big or small. Doing so will create an environment where they feel accepted and understood. An open line of communication is the cornerstone of any healthy relationship, especially with your adult children. Approach conversations with curiosity and empathy rather than judgment. Ask open-ended questions and genuinely listen to their responses without feeling the need to interject with advice unless asked. Let them know you're a safe space where they can share without fear of criticism. Establish boundaries that allow both parties to express thoughts and feelings freely. Make it a point to check in regularly, but be wary of crossing into overbearing territory. It's a delicate balance, but with practice, you can create a dialogue that fosters connection and understanding. Your goal is to cultivate a relationship that thrives on mutual respect and honesty. Your children have spent years working toward independence, and now that they have it, respect it. They are forging their paths, complete with unique challenges and triumphs. According to Dr. Jeffrey Arnett, a professor of psychology at Clark University, respecting the autonomy of adult children is critical for maintaining a strong bond. This involves acknowledging their decisions, even when they venture into uncharted territories. Avoid the temptation to solve their problems or offer unsolicited advice. Instead, empower them to make their own choices and support them as they navigate the consequences. This practice will not only strengthen your relationship, but also help them develop confidence in their abilities. Remember, your role has shifted from caretaker to confidant. One way to strengthen your bond with your adult children is through shared experiences. Try something new together — whether it's taking a cooking class, attending a lecture, or embarking on a travel adventure. These joint activities can create lasting memories and foster a sense of camaraderie. It's an opportunity to engage with each other outside the familial roles you've known for years. Keep an open mind and be willing to step into their world. While you may have certain activities you're comfortable with, part of the fun is exploring interests that might be outside your comfort zone. It shows them that you are adaptable and interested in their lives as they evolve. Shared experiences become the foundation for meaningful connections. Boundaries are essential in maintaining a healthy and respectful relationship with your adult children. By establishing clear boundaries, you create a framework that allows for both closeness and individuality. Clinical psychologist Dr. Henry Cloud, co-author of the book "Boundaries," argues that clearly defined boundaries are crucial for healthy relationships. It ensures that both parties feel respected and valued. Communicate your expectations openly and encourage your children to do the same. This mutual understanding helps prevent misunderstandings and fosters a sense of security. Healthy boundaries also allow you to enjoy each other's company without feeling overwhelmed or stifled. Remember, a little space can go a long way in preserving the quality of your relationship. It's tempting to hover when you feel your children pulling away, but resist the urge. Embrace the transition from being a hands-on parent to a supportive friend. Let them come to you when they need guidance, rather than imposing your presence on their lives uninvited. This shift requires patience but ultimately nurtures a relationship built on trust and respect. Foster an environment where they feel comfortable approaching you. By being approachable and accepting, you allow them to seek you out when they need support or advice. Your presence should feel like a choice rather than an obligation. This freedom can make spending time together a genuine pleasure rather than a chore. Staying informed about current events, technology, and culture helps you remain relatable to your adult children. However, there's a fine line between being current and trying too hard. As cultural psychologist Dr. Hazel Markus noted, understanding the context of your children's lives enhances communication and connection. It's about finding a balance that keeps you informed without losing your authenticity. Engage with the things that genuinely interest you, and don't be afraid to share your perspectives. Your children will appreciate your efforts when they see them as sincere rather than superficial. It's not about adopting every new trend, but about showing a willingness to understand the world through their eyes. This effort can bridge generational gaps, making conversations more enriching and fulfilling. Harnessing emotional intelligence is key to navigating the complexities of parent-adult child relationships. It involves being aware of your emotions and how they impact your interactions with your children. Develop the ability to recognize your triggers and manage them constructively. By doing so, you set a positive example for your children and create a more harmonious relationship. Encourage your children to express their emotions freely and respond with empathy. This level of emotional engagement fosters a deeper connection and understanding between you. Instead of reacting defensively, strive to validate their feelings and experiences. Emotional intelligence is a powerful tool that can transform your relationship into a nurturing space for growth and intimacy. As your children grow older, their romantic relationships and friendships become pivotal parts of their lives. Show genuine interest in these relationships and support them without intruding. Offer to meet their friends or partners, and extend invitations to family gatherings. This inclusion shows that you value their choices and the people they care about. However, respect their privacy and refrain from prying into details they aren't comfortable sharing. By creating an accepting and welcoming environment, you encourage your children to involve you in their social lives voluntarily. This support goes a long way in maintaining a strong relationship with them as they build their own communities. Your acceptance of their social networks is pivotal in nurturing an open and trusting bond. Life is a series of transitions, and being open to change is crucial in maintaining a positive relationship with your adult children. As they evolve, so must you. Adaptability demonstrates your willingness to grow alongside them, allowing your relationship to flourish. Embrace the new dynamics that come with their adulthood, whether it's accepting their new roles or understanding their shifting priorities. Recognize that your influence may diminish as they seek advice from peers or mentors. Accepting this change gracefully allows your relationship to mature organically. It's about letting go of control and trusting the strong foundation you've built. Embracing change can transform challenges into opportunities for growth and deeper connection. Supporting your children's passions is a surefire way to strengthen your bond. Show interest in their hobbies and pursuits by asking questions and engaging in conversations about their latest projects. This demonstrates that you value their interests and are enthusiastic about their happiness. Even if their passions aren't your first choice, your willingness to engage speaks volumes. Attend their events or exhibitions and celebrate their successes, no matter how small. Your presence is a powerful affirmation of your support. Encourage them to pursue their dreams with confidence and zeal. This support can inspire them to achieve their goals and cultivate a relationship that thrives on mutual encouragement. Vulnerability tends to be a rare trait in parent-child dynamics, especially as children become adults. Yet, sharing your own doubts, fears, and challenges can foster a stronger bond. It humanizes you and encourages open communication. When your children see you as relatable and authentic, they feel more comfortable sharing their own vulnerabilities. Share personal stories and experiences that have shaped your views and decisions. This openness can lead to deeper, more meaningful conversations. It's a way to model emotional resilience and understanding, encouraging them to be similarly open. Vulnerability is powerful; it creates a connection that strengthens the very fabric of your relationship. In the hustle and bustle of modern life, it can be challenging to carve out quality time with your adult children. Yet, making an effort to spend time together is crucial for maintaining a strong connection. Schedule regular get-togethers that are convenient and enjoyable for all parties involved. Whether it's a monthly dinner or a weekend getaway, these occasions provide a space for bonding and memory-making. When spending time together, be present and attentive. Put away distractions and focus on enjoying each other's company. These moments can become cherished traditions, reinforcing your relationship's importance. By prioritizing quality time, you demonstrate your commitment to maintaining a close-knit family bond. Every milestone, big or small, deserves recognition. Celebrate your children's achievements and life events with enthusiasm and pride. Whether it's a career advancement, personal accomplishment, or relationship milestone, your acknowledgment reinforces their value. This recognition doesn't have to be grandiose; sometimes, a simple congratulatory gesture can mean the world. However, ensure your celebrations align with their comfort and preferences. Some may prefer intimate gatherings, while others enjoy more elaborate festivities. Adapt to their style and make it about their joy, not yours. Celebrating milestones together strengthens your bond and shows your support in tangible ways. Expressing gratitude is a powerful way to maintain a positive relationship with your adult children. Regularly acknowledge and appreciate their contributions to your life, whether it's a thoughtful gesture or a shared experience. Gratitude fosters a sense of mutual respect and appreciation, creating a nurturing environment for your relationship to thrive. It's about recognizing their efforts and the joy they bring to your life. Encourage them to express gratitude as well, creating a reciprocal relationship founded on appreciation. This practice can shift your focus from challenges to the positive aspects of your connection. By fostering a gratitude-centered relationship, you strengthen the emotional bond between you. Gratitude is transformative; it turns ordinary moments into extraordinary ones, deepening your connection in meaningful ways.
