Do you recognize the systems thinker in you?
The image calls them habits, but I would not refer to them as habits as lots of these require reflection.
However, here are some of the things that can help you become a systems thinker:
As a systems thinker I:
-Seek to understand the big picture -Change perspectives to increase understanding -Consider how mental models affect current reality and future -Consider an issue fully and resist the urge to conclude quickly.
Why does being a systems thinker matter when it comes to change?
It matters because behaviors and change rarely happen in isolation and we need to not only think about the individual but also the system in which that change needs to happen.
Let me be clear, we work with behavioral systems mapping in our consulting projects - sometimes they are made for internal sense-making, and sometimes they are work we deliver for clients - in either case, they require lots of stakeholders to be present, as you need to build and validate with each - behaviors, influences, and connections. Sometimes it is not possible to get all the data/stakeholders, so be aware of that.
If you have ever created a systems map, you know they can get complex, so something we try and do is to zoom in on a specific area and bring that to a journey map, where you can add a more linear and temporal representation with more details to take action on them.
We are always trying to get better with this process, and that means we want to understand different ways of approaching the mapping, including tools (we use Kumu, but are open to new ones).
If you are very experienced in building system maps DM me, would like to bring you into one of our future projects and combine our behavioral knowledge and experience with yours.
Image credit
Waters Foundation