Perspective: A Counter-Intuitive Approach

A common way of solving problems is for us to make decisions based on our previous experience or even to use resources such as “lessons learned” or “best practices.” Considering the many economic and regulatory forces causing pressures and risks to a company’s survival, solving tough organizational problems may require one to use a counter-intuitive strategy. In business, counter-intuitive is just a fancy way of referring to ideas that go against common sense. A strategy like this may have you doing the opposite of what you might do unconsciously in a tough situation. Anyone advocating counter-intuitive thinking is simply reinforcing the advice that comes from above.

For example, a person’s desire may be, “I want it,” but a counter-intuitive approach to the situation might be, “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” Likewise, someone’s instinct may dictate a “me first” manner, when an opposite approach is, “The last will be first and the first last.” Intuition says, “I’ll be better if I get revenge” but another counter-intuitive measure is, “Do good to those who hate you.”

Wanting something doesn’t make it good. Achieving something doesn’t make it valuable. And having strong feelings about something doesn’t make it right. Those who follow their own desires and instincts may lead others into conflict and divisions.

The alternative is to be spiritual. This may mean using an approach to a problem or taking actions and applying solutions in a situation that are counter intuitive. In many cases, making the right decisions may require supernatural strength. An approach like this can be very beneficial and valuable for all concerned. In fact, it is something we’ve taken to heart.