Myth of Certainty

Making sense of organisational dynamics and experience in order to strategise effectively has been the holy grail of management and organisational theory. In spite of growing evidence that organisations and their environments are increasingly unpredictable, the dominant rational-scientific paradigm still appears to hold sway over many organisational decision-makers today.

A sense of feeling confused, bewildered and out of control in unpredictable environments can drive leaders to try to find a place of psychological and emotional security.

The rational-scientific paradigm may engender feeling of certainty that, in turn, create sufficient confidence and impetus for positive decision-making. Nevertheless, it is typically reductionist and ignores some of the most important variables that actually influence organisational success: e.g. anxiety, self-interest, politics, culture, relationships.

I believe the human dimensions of management and organisations – our beliefs, values, spirituality and relationships – must take centre stage because that’s where real strength will lie. Genuine vision combined with integrity, diversity and participation will transcend the waves of change.