Introduction to Polarity Thinking for Adaptive Leadership

Target Audience:

All GS Levels

Summary and Objectives:

Polarities are interdependent pairs that need each other over time to achieve a greater purpose shared by both. These interdependent pairs could also be called paradoxes, dilemmas, tensions, or adaptive challenges. They are unavoidable and inherently unsolvable in that you cannot chose one "solution" to the neglect of the other and be successful over time. Instead, we must learn to acknowledge and leverage the natural tension that exists within the polarity with a different approach in order to make sustainable progress on our most complex challenges.

Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:

• Differentiate between a problem and a polarity.
• Identify the 5 Steps of the "SMALL" Process for leveraging polarities.
• Complete a Polarity Map.

Competencies Addressed: 

Adaptability - Basic, Interpersonal Dynamics - Basic, Leadership - Basic, Problem Solving - Basic, Conflict Management - Awareness, Strategic Thinking - Awareness