Literature Reflection;

Rethinking in Consulting: Key Lessons from "Think Again" by Adam Grant

I really enjoy the works of Adam Grant – renowned corporate psychologist. His insights can be particularly relevant to consulting where understanding of human behaviour, decision-making and adaptability is key to drive impactful business strategies.?So I found myself thinking a lot about rethinking...In his book "Think again"- book about the power of rethinking—challenging assumptions, unlearning outdated beliefs, and embracing intellectual humility, Grant explains that the ability to rethink is not just an asset—it’s a necessity. Here are some key insights from the book that I find are particularly relevant to the consulting industry:

1. The expert trap: knowledge can be a curse;

Our experience and expertise can sometimes blind us to new possibilities. In consulting, relying too heavily on past successes can limit our ability to recognize emerging trends or disruptive technologies, or even alternative solutions that might be more effective.

2. Think like a scientist, not a preacher, prosecutor, or politician;

Grant introduces three thinking modes:

• Preachers - they defend their ideas as absolute truths.
• Prosecutors - they aim to prove others wrong.
• Politicians - seek approval by saying what others want to hear.
• Instead, thinking like a scientist means questioning assumptions, testing hypotheses, and being open to new data. As consultants, we must validate our insights with evidence, adapt to evolving client needs, and be willing to revise recommendations when necessary.

3. Confident humility;

Being sure enough to act, yet open enough to change our views and even habits. Clients look to us for expert guidance, but that doesn’t mean we should be rigid in our perspectives. There should be a balance of confidence in suggested frameworks with the ability to change or adapt when new data suggests a better path. This mindset builds trust and ensures that solutions remain relevant.

4. Rethinking culture;

Creating psychological safety for debate - encouraging constructive discussions within teams can lead to stronger problem-solving and innovation. Ensuring people feel comfortable challenging ideas without fear of backlash.

5. The Power of "What Evidence Would Change Your Mind?";

One of the simplest yet most powerful questions in consulting. If we can’t define what would convince us to rethink, we might be trapped in a rigid mindset. This approach keeps us intellectually agile and client-focused, ensuring we prioritize facts over assumptions.

6. Rethinking is a competitive advantage;

In a world where markets, technologies, and customer behaviors are constantly evolving, the best consulting approach is not the one with all the right answers - its the one willing to questions those answers to find even better ones.

Care to share your thoughts?