How Great Leaders Think: The Art of Reframing

Chapter 11Images of LeadershipCan Crooked Kites Fly?

Ideally we would all be versatile leaders who see the world through multiple lenses. In reality, most of us have a narrower field of vision. We prefer some ways of interpreting reality and neglect others. If our preferences were measured and plotted on a four-dimensional grid, we’d look lopsided. The shape of our leadership “kite,” depicting our cognitive leanings, can position us for success—or disaster. It all depends on how well we can adapt our mental images to align with the challenges we face.

You don’t have to be equally comfortable with all four frames. If certain areas fall outside your comfort zone, expand your field of vision—or work with someone who can help cover for your blind ...