Something you need to pay attention to: Your Organizational Umwelt

By Jayson Krause, Managing Director of Level 52 & Award-Winning Author of The Science Behind Success

In the animal kingdom, the concept of 'Umwelt' describes the unique way each creature perceives its environment. A bat navigates the world through echolocation, a dog through scent, a human through a complex interplay of senses. Each species has its own 'Umwelt' - its own subjective reality.

In the world of business leadership, the concept of 'Umwelt' is just as relevant. Every organization has its own unique perception of the world, shaped by its culture, values, history, and collective experiences. This organizational 'Umwelt' influences how it interprets and responds to the business environment.

As leaders, we often strive for alignment, towards a shared vision. But in doing so, do we risk creating a dangerous 'Umwelt' that blinds us to alternative perspectives? The challenge for modern leaders is to harness the diverse discomfort of 'Umwelt' within their organizations, to create a richer, more nuanced understanding of the business landscape.

Here are three strategies to harness your organization's 'Umwelt':

1. Foster a Culture of Curiosity: Encourage your team to question assumptions, explore different perspectives, and challenge the status quo. This will help to broaden your organization's 'Umwelt', making it more adaptable and resilient.

2. Leverage Diversity: Diversity isn't just a buzzword or about ticking boxes. It's about bringing together a range of experiences, perspectives, and ways of thinking. By leveraging this diversity, you can create a more complex and nuanced 'Umwelt' that can navigate the business environment more effectively. 

3. Encourage Dialogue: Create spaces for open, honest dialogue where different perspectives can be heard and valued. This will help to break down silos and foster a more integrated 'Umwelt'.

The concept of 'Umwelt' offers a powerful lens for understanding and navigating the complexities of the business environment. By harnessing the 'Umwelt' within your organization, you can create a more adaptable, resilient, and successful business.