The Genius of ‘AND’
A fitting resolution against the “Tyranny of OR”
The “Genius of AND” is a counter intuitive principle introduced in a book called “Built to Last” by Jim Collins.
The principle underlines the ability of truly exceptional companies to embrace seemingly contradictory concepts/strategies and integrating them into a coherent whole, unlocking superior results.
At its essence, it challenges and encourages us to explore creative possibilities that can emerge when you don’t limit yourself to either/or choices (Tyranny of OR).
Instead of choosing A OR B, we should try and figure out how to have both A AND B — Purpose AND Profit, Freedom AND Responsibility.
Scott Fitzgerald said — “The test of a first-rate intelligence is the ability to hold two opposing ideas in mind at the same time and still retain the ability to function.”
For instance, throughout mainstream media, we have been made to believe that to be successful we should be prepared to sacrifice our health and family time or compromise on our values.
The Principle of “Genius of AND” challenges that notion head on. Instead, it argues that its possible to balance both. For ex -
- A company can be both profitable AND socially responsible without compromising on either of its values.
- As a leader, you could be highly ambitious with your vision for the company AND exercise personal humility by being open minded and listening to feedback.
We can unlock superior results while making important decisions by embracing this uncompromising mindset in our lives. Whenever faced with a either/or situation, start with :
- Being open-minded to the possibility that contradictory ideas can actually work together and even result in an overall better outcome.
- Not afraid to think and come up with solutions that challenge traditional thinking.
- Being persistent. Everything good takes time.
Time to imagine a better future, without compromise.
