We now live in a world that's overflowing with answers.
We now live in a world that's overflowing with answers.
Data, dashboards, and AI that can pull together almost anything.
But the real work of thinking (for leaders and their advisors) hasn’t changed.
It’s still about making a judgment call when things are cloudy.
That's both critical and hard to do in complex situations,
because every option has a trade-off and opinions clash.
As I observe the evolution of AI...
I've been thinking about this human element a lot.
I've been thinking about previous roles I've played as facilitator.
I've been thinking about the work I do now with clients as a catalyst.
My current position is this:
When you're facilitating (or coaching) you don't compete with information.
But you must make sure the right information is in the room.
And you must guide people to make sense of it.
Always their sense, not yours.
Because you're a guide, not an advisor.
That often means slowing things down, looking at what’s real, and finding the best options.
Making sure they weigh the business needs, people issues, and the moment they're in.
Sometimes they'll resist this.
Yet, it’s critical human work.
- Confronting reality.
- Gaining outcome clarity.
- Having honest conversations.
- And then making better decisions.
Think about a complex situation you’re in.
One you’ve not ever experienced before.
Perhaps as a leader, or as part of a team.
How will you handle that, by asking ChatGPT, or by thinking it through independently?