The creativity and constraint of difference
As soon as we’re collaborating with others, we’re in difference!
Bringing together different people, perspectives and energies can fuel creativity, innovation and possibility. Collective intelligence is generated by this mix of different styles, wants, ideas and needs.
Yet, just as our differences can elevate what is possible, they also have the potential to trip us up and constrain collaboration. Can you think of a recent moment where you bumped up against difference that felt constraining rather than creative? How did you react? Was it a discrete eye roll, a flash of frustration or an internal dismissal? Depending on your power, maybe you even bulldozed through it unaware?
Collaboration always involves this push and pull of differences with associated feelings of connection and disconnection.
Do you notice the ebb and flow of these dynamics in the groups or teams you’re in?
???[^] Reflective Exercise;?
Collaboration, and how we can work and learn better together, is at the heart of our work at RISE Beyond. The reflection above is based on our own collaborative conversations within our?Community of Practice.
Find out more about what we do?to support critical conversations, creating conditions for effective leadership and collaboration.
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[^] RISE Beyond?is a global Collaboration Consultancy and learning community.
We partner with individuals and organisations to help people work and learn better, together.