INTRODUCTION

An Explorer’s Mindset matters…

What is an Explorer’s Mindset?

Explorers have long played a central role in the history of humankind because explorers create new value - in resources, territories, exchange, knowledge, technology, leadership and learning.

Since our ancestors made their way from Africa 50,000 years ago, Homo Sapiens’ urge to scale mountains, cross oceans, endure extreme conditions and now to leave our planet for another is a distinctive characteristic of our species.

Around the world in every modern and ancient culture, in legends, oral traditions, art, humanities and science, explorers are celebrated and admired. From the past to the present, they are recognisable by their key behaviours:

• Bold curiosity - the urge to know more and act upon it

• Pushing boundaries - seeking novelty and personal growth

• Making connections in the process of exploration and value creation - bringing resources, teams, sponsors and audiences together

• Highly adaptive to changing operating conditions - flexible and responsive

• Storytelling, not of ripping yarns of individual adventure, but stories which change others’ understanding of the world.   

Explorers have shaped our world in the most extraordinary ways. Based on principles underpinning an Explorer’s Mindset, you too can develop the skills to lead your organisation to new opportunities in a fast changing world.

Where are you now? Where are you going?

An Explorer’s Mindset is activated by conceiving a challenge as an expedition. For example, a project imagined as a summit attempt appeals to common sense: a mountain peak is visible to all, it’s easy to measure progress and everyone will know when the goal is reached. But what if the goal is shifting? What if you can’t tell how long it will take to get where you want to go? What if you cannot easily define the end point? In this example your project is more akin to crossing a desert than climbing a mountain. So in each case, would your preparation, style of leadership and team management must differ, but how? 

An Explorer'‘s Mindset is based on extensive research to develop leaders who can optimise outcomes in changing conditions, increase personal effectiveness, speed and resilience. An Explorer’s Mindset reduces risk and opportunity costs while building a narrative to motivate others and build your distinctive leadership brand.