A key human activity is thinking.  Thinking starts with the observation of things and events and ends with the creation of opinions, believes, decisions,  reflections, musings and so on.

we often talk about the value that can be derived from engaging groups of people in teams and leveraging their diversity.  Much of this diversity stems from individuals thinking patterns.

A Multitude of Thinking Processes

How we think is most likely a product of nature and nurture.  That is, the way we think derives from our genetic template coupled with the impacts of our life experiences.

Over the past decade a number of post secondary studiies have demonstrated left handed people are more likely to come up with unconventional solutions.

This is potentially an example of genetically influenced thinking patterns.  Handedness is largely believed to have a genetic component although isolating the related genes and confirming genetic drivers has eluded researchers to date.

Common Thinking Patterns

Some people like to think about an idea slowly over time while others make quick decisions.  Some are more cautious in their thinking while others simply “damm the torpedo’s“ and speed ahead.

All these patterns, whether creative, unconventional slow,or fast can appear very different.  There is power in the diversity and when you have the opportunity to leverage this diversity,  it is to your advantage to embrace it.

Celebrate the fact that others think differently.  Respect everyones contribution, encourage it.