Bridging the Gap Between Instinct and Action

Some people hear a new idea and think, "Let’s give it a go."

Others hear it and think, "Prove it works first."

In any team, you have two natural instincts that dictate how people move.

First, there is Future Assurance.

These people are naturally willing to try new things.

They hear a proposal and think it sounds like a great idea.

They are energised by the new and see the potential before the problems.

For them, the risk of standing still is greater than the risk of a new venture.

Then, there is Past Assurance.

These people need proof.

They want to know that the "thing" you are proposing has been tried and tested.

They look for evidence and track records.

They aren't being difficult; they are simply making sure the ground is solid before the team takes a step.

I see this play out in leadership teams and across departments every day.

Think of it through this analogy, with our dogs Summer & Rocket demonstrating:

Summer is the embodiment of Future Assurance.

Facing forward, eyes on the horizon, ready for what is next.

Rocket represents Past Assurance.

He is looking backwards, checking the path we have already walked, and only peeking forward once he is certain of the foundation.

Neither approach is wrong.

In fact, you need both to scale safely.

The friction happens when we don’t recognise these instincts for what they are.

Future Assurance people can feel held back or frustrated by what they see as a lack of ambition.

Past Assurance people can feel stressed or steamrolled by what they see as reckless decision making.

If you are leading a team, your job is to bridge that gap.

When you propose a change, give the Past Assurance people the data or case studies they need to feel secure.

Don't dismiss their need for proof as "negativity."

When you are debating a move, lean on the Future Assurance people to keep the momentum high and the vision clear.

The most effective teams don't try to change these instincts.

They use them to pressure test every decision.

Future Assurance sets the pace.

Past Assurance ensures the path is sustainable.

Which one do you naturally lean toward?

And how is that affecting the way your team makes decisions?