In short, Cynefin methods are based on finding the evolutionary potential in the present, setting a broad future direction, and moving towards ‘adjacent possibles.’ The best way to describe this is by crossing a river by feeling the stones. The intent or direction is to cross the river. We are not aiming for a particular spot (in contrast to the

Uncertainty has so much to teach us. We experience it not just in big life transitions, but in lesser moments of ambiguity, such as the “messy middle” of a project, when we’d like to throw in the towel. When we find ourselves in these precarious moments, our automatic response is too often fear or anxiety. And so we rush toward a defined outcome to

but a generative series of experiments. Linear Mindset Experimental Mindset Response to Uncertainty Response 1: Automatic Fight/Flight/Freeze. Not knowing the destination triggers anxiety. Response 2: Autonomous Engage/Explore/Experiment. Not knowing the destination triggers curiosity. Mental Model of Growth Ladders Lists of milestones with

Life isn’t a trek up a summit but a journey to travel through—a vast blue ocean, full of new opportunities for meaning and discovery but also danger and uncertainty. In this choppy surf, a clunky pyramid is of little use. Instead, what is needed is something a bit more functional. We’ll need a sailboat.