IMAGINATION VS KNOWLEDGE

In the Saturday Evening Post in 1929, Einstein stated that, “Imagination is more important than knowledge.? Knowledge is limited. Imagination encircles the world.”

This simple quote has inspired millions, and I believe it has misled a few as well.? The quote seems to be dismissive of knowledge, given its limitations.? In contrast, imagination is seen to be more unlimited.? It’s implied that it’s imagination that propels us forward when we inevitably hit the limits of what we know.? Very true.?

Yet, therein lies my problem with the common use of the quote.? It seems to place the two ideas at odds.? The truth, of course, is that they are deeply intertwined and completely worthless without the other.? Imagination without knowledge will rarely be useful.? Knowledge without imagination will eventually wither and die.? I assume Einstein knew this very well, but thanks to him for giving me a fun post to write.?

Imagine life at work if knowledge was discounted and imagination was prized.? You would certainly have a great many people sharing wild ideas. ?The average idea quality would be quite low, though fanciful and entertaining.? Few would ever be valuable enough to investigate or implement.? Now think of a workplace that loves knowledge and routines and shuns imagination.? The supply of new ideas would be tiny.? People would feel bonded through a shared love of risk aversion.? The status quo sours over time jeopardizing operational viability.?

Finally, imagine a workplace that understands that innovation and change require both parts of the equation.? They know that knowledge should be world-class, up to date, leveraged, and yet understood to be imperfect.? There are plans in place and incentives used to ensure a climate of continuous learning and development.? At the same time, they ask for and respect new thinking with the potential to upset the status quo.? They move past seeking knowledge to actual experimentation.? Creative thoughts and behaviors are rarely frowned upon.? They are instead seen as stimulants to be shaped and molded as needed to support positive change.? That is an organization with a chance at being worldclass.?

Engaging this duality will be very useful in terms of building new insights about yourself, your team, and your organization.? It’s a fun proposition because you don’t have to try to be something you’re not to support innovation and improvement at work.? You just have to understand that both factors, imagination and knowledge, are in play and then strive to find the balance that works for you personally in terms of how you contribute.? Are you a creator and defender of a finely tuned status quo?? Or, do you constantly focus on what’s next as opposed to what’s now?? Maybe a little of both?? There is no correct answer.? Once you find your answer and feel comfortable about it, then you’ll be ready to help the team find it’s balance too.? Remember, each person on the team doesn’ have to be a master of both knowledge and imagination.? You’re just striving to find a balance of those roles that allows the team collectively to be stronger than the sum of its individual parts.? That’s the magic of innovation.? Great team chemistry, solid talent and IQ, serious effort, and a leader who can create an engaged culture.? I guess it’s not magic after all.?

WHAT’S UP WITH DR. D?

Deadpool and Wolverine was exactly the wacky over-the-top profane fun you would expect.? A good time was had by all.? The movies are crazy expensive these days, but as much as I love watching things in the comfort of my home – nothing beats going to the movies! ?

Course news: ?in collaboration with the University of Florida, College of Journalism and Communication, I’m thrilled to share that my new course Leadership Essentials for Communication Professionals is now available.? It’s like sitting down with me in my office to chat about a few true essential ideas and tools for any upwardly mobile professional, new manager, or middle manager.? If you’d like a good refresher around leadership and communication, and a little motivation too – this is for you.? Tap the link to see a preview.? Topics include self-awareness, communication tips, motivating team performance, and more.? This is over two hours of practical world class advice you can use immediately.? So, what are you waiting for?? The course is $99 US.? Let me help – use this coupon code (CJC-50Off) and get 50% off.? Big thanks also to the continuing education / professional development teams at UF, and a huge thanks to Cheryl Oberlin and Evan Kroop for making this happen.?

https://reg.pwd.aa.ufl.edu/search/publicCourseSearchDetails.do?method=load&courseId=9435388&selectedProgramAreaId=2621465&selectedProgramStreamId=2621467#courseSectionDetails_9435458

Finally, I just met the second person in two weeks who says he has read all of my books – wow!? As a guy who’s not a traditional best-seller but who does constantly sell a trickle – that is so kind!? In my next life, my books will reach as many people as my courses lol? :)?

Until next time – go learn something, maybe help someone, or at least do something interesting!

My courses:? https://www.dhirubhai.net/learning/instructors/todd-dewett

My books:? https://tinyurl.com/yvwuvmaw

Me on stage:? https://bit.ly/3EfcDSb

Book me:? https://bit.ly/3WHeRB0?

All links in one place:? https://linktr.ee/drdewett.