The introduction of Points of You PRO into the marketplace has been a fascinating experience for me. It has been highly satisfying and fulfilling as I have watched both individuals and teams develop new perspectives and open up to each other in an authentic manner. It was the use of Points of You and its ability to generate genuine conversations that prompted me to do neuroscientific research to better understand the effectiveness of this innovative and eye-opening tool. I realized that emerging knowledge of the brain is resulting in positive changes in fields like medicine, where doctors are treating conditions such as strokes and mental disorders differently and more effectively.

The impact of this new knowledge is also changing the way we manage, lead, coach, motivate, lead teams, solve problems, innovate, communicate, resolve conflict, train and manage change in organizations. Points of You is supported by basic fundamental principles and continues to deliver eye-opening experiences to all who participate in its programs. And yet, despite such positive experiences, there seems to be a difference in reactions between some managers and others – and it appears to be related to attitudes towards risk and involvement with the business.

Some managers, despite having a positive experience with Points of You and talking about its potential use within their organizations, aren’t so quick to move. Despite the fact that they understand that emerging knowledge of the brain is changing common management practices, they’d rather stick to the tried and proven and avoid taking risks. They invent common excuses related to budgets, being busy, being preoccupied with other projects, loyalty to existing suppliers, etc. but don’t seem to want to take a risk, set up a pilot project and do what’s best for the business. Playing it safe seems to be their mantra.

Fortunately, other managers understand the potential of tools like Points of You, see the positive impact on their businesses and refuse to be swept up in a sea of excuses. They understand that business is about change and taking risk and that playing it safe is not a recipe for business or career success. They understand that great, new ideas come along occasionally and that they have to be willing to interrupt their busy routines and act quickly. They don’t take unreasonable risks and so start with smaller pilot projects before moving forward on a larger scale.  They all find that taking cautious risks is a necessary characteristic of leaders. They’re all fully engaged with their businesses.

What about you – are you playing it safe or willing to take a risk?