Should We Strive for Organisational Instincts or Habits?

Lee explores the concept of instincts and habits. He delves into the idea of striving for perfection in human behaviour by encouraging individuals to do the right thing at the right time, every time. Lee discusses the differences between instincts and habits, highlighting that instincts are reactive and unconscious, while habits involve conscious awareness and practice. Overall, this thought-provoking episode challenges conventional thinking and offers practical insights for solving business problems.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Instincts and habits are different. Instincts are automatic responses without conscious awareness, while habits have some conscious awareness.

• Habits can be learned and practised, while instincts are often innate.

• The goal should be to develop habits that become instinctive, enabling people to do the right thing at the right time, every time.

• Developing organisational habits is challenging, but striving for organisational instincts can lead to more spontaneous and effective actions.

• Creating clarity, and alignment, and providing space for practice and learning are essential in developing habits and potentially turning them into instincts.

BEST MOMENTS

"I want to maybe just go a little bit deeper on this in terms of habits and aspirationally as leaders of people and as leaders of change."

"Maybe doing the right thing at the right time, every time, is our striving for perfection, like we do in the improvement world." 

"Maybe habits are more reactive and maybe instincts are more proactive at a point, maybe." 

"We should be trying to create organisational instincts so that if anything happens, if anything occurs, we all do the right thing at the right time every time." 

"Habitual suggests routine. Instinct suggests spontaneity. And if we truly want people to do the right thing at the right time, every time, then we need to create more spontaneity." 

HOST BIO

You can contact Lee Houghton on 07813342194 [e-mail] https://www.linkedin.com/in/lhoughton/

For the last 15 years, I have been a multi-sector internal or external business improvement consultant, building the improved capability of individuals, teams and businesses.

In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my two young children Jack & India. I also enjoy listening to and reading business & personal development material.

Lee Houghton is “THE Business Problem Solver”, a Management Consultant, CX Specialist and Keynote Speaker.