What is “rethinking” all about?
“Rethinking” involves critically examining and questioning our previous thoughts, beliefs, methods, processes, and the status quo. It means challenging established ideas and actively seeking new perspectives and alternative solutions. Through this practice, we aim to deepen our understanding, open doors to innovation, and improve the way we do things. By re-evaluating existing concepts and approaches, both individuals and organisations can adapt to change, address shortcomings, and discover more efficient and effective ways to accomplish tasks.
“Rethinking” is prevalent – according to organisational psychologist Adam Grant, great minds don’t think alike; instead, they constantly challenge one another to think different. You can explore his thought-provoking podcast series here: https://www.ted.com/podcasts/rethinking-with-adam-grant.
This fundamental process not only encourages creativity but also fuels progress and fosters personal and professional growth.
Thinking different about “rethinking” – there’s a reason it’s called outside-the-box thinking.
Any project, issue, or predicament demands multiple iterations of re-evaluation, reviewing, and rethinking – whichever suits you best.
“Rethinking” goes beyond mere reflection; it requires actively reconsidering our previous conclusions or ideas. It takes time and intention and can be a powerful tool for personal and intellectual growth. However, Reinhardt Hitge, a CIMA-Clerk at RAiN Chartered Accountants, poses an intriguing question:
By actively examining our thoughts and assumptions from various perspectives, we gain a deeper understanding of complex issues and expand our horizons to consider alternative solutions or approaches. Including external factors, processes, and people provides diverse insights and influences our initial thoughts.
CASE STUDY:
To be effective, Hitge realised the importance of confronting subconscious biases and adopting a new mindset. By consciously thinking different on behalf of the client, he discovered innovative solutions and delivered the best possible outcome. Embracing this challenge required dedicated practice and perseverance, but it also opened doors to countless untapped possibilities.
“Rethinking current practices – how to proceed?”
Various practices can effectively facilitate “rethinking”:
Status Quo Shifters in Practice
Imagine a world where scientific breakthroughs redefine our understanding of the universe. In this world, great thinkers like Albert Einstein challenge the status quo and push the boundaries of knowledge. Einstein’s theory of relativity emerged from his bold “rethinking” of Newton’s laws of physics, completely overturning our concept of space, time, and gravity. His questioning of existing theories unlocked a new realm of scientific understanding that continues to inspire generations, pushing the boundaries of knowledge.
Moving beyond Newton and Netflix, RAiN Chartered Accountants have also dared to challenge the status quo…
To demonstrate their forward-thinking approach, RAiN Chartered Accountants implemented a four-day workweek, ensuring employees have sufficient time to rest, recharge, and maintain productivity in delivering the best possible service to their clients.
Another example of their reimagined business development and networking efforts is the creation of CoolDesk and Wolk. CoolDesk is an innovative shared workspace that promotes collaboration, creativity, and productivity. With a supportive community, flexible packages, networking opportunities, and first-class facilities, CoolDesk provides an ideal environment for professional growth.
Hitge explains:
These examples exemplify the immense power of rethinking. Whether it entails pushing the limits of scientific knowledge, revolutionizing industries, or transforming the financial sector, there is abundant evidence of how “thinking, rethinking, and collaborating in thought” act as catalysts for progress.
Or perhaps we should reconsider this?
Visit www.rain.org.za for more inspiring stories.
