Many of the problems we face in business require a logical, straightforward thinking style, but many others are the complete opposite; they can only be solved by thinking outside of the box, by being creative. Successful teams need both types of thinkers, those straight-to-business, logical, vertical thinkers, and the dreamers, the creative, unorthodox, lateral thinkers. Today, we delve into the essence of vertical and lateral thinking. We analyze how to incentivize our teams to practice both styles and why it is essential to have a balanced mixture of vertical and lateral thinkers. In addition, we explore the differences between being a multiplier or a diminisher leader, multiplying our team members' voices, or shutting them down at meetings. We touch on promoting rigorous debates within our teams to promote growth and thought-provoking ideas. In This Episode, You Will Learn:A discrepancy in how we think is necessary to promote growth (2:31)The riddle of the old lady and the elevator (6:49)How vertical and lateral thinkers get to conclusions (11:26)About what we can do as leaders to multiply our teams' voices (14:43)The differences between being a debate promoter and a decision-maker (16:51)It is our responsibility as leaders to create a safe space where our team feels free to share their thoughts (22:14)Resources:Quote: Benjamin Franklin - "If everyone is thinking alike, then no one is thinking."Lateral Thinking PuzzlesQuote: Edward de Bono - "The vertical thinker says: 'I know what I am looking for.' The lateral thinker says: 'I am looking, but I won't know what I am looking for until I have found it."Book: Liz Wiseman - Multipliers: How the Best Leaders Make Everyone Smarter Quote: Liz Wiseman - "Rigorous debate doesn't break down a team; it builds them and makes the team stronger."Coaching with Clint Consultation Call - Book HereDownload my free One-on-One Transformation toolLet's Connect!WebsiteLinkedInInstagram FacebookEmail: clint@flavorofleadership.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.