The Risk of Routines and the Other Side of Familiarity
Familiarity breeds risk. Routines can lull us into a false sense of security, causing us to overlook potential dangers.
Today's newsletter is a reflection on a recent event that happened at Vortex.
Routines, often seen as the key to productivity, have a risk we often overlook. They can make us too familiar and complacent. In familiar, routine activities with known people, we often underestimate the value of preparation. This familiarity breeds false security. It leads us to think that preparation is unnecessary.
Yet, entering meetings or situations unprepared can lead to immediate judgement from others. As leaders, we attract attention and set standards that others look up to. It's our responsibility to consistently meet these expectations. "Unprepared" here does not mean careless. It highlights the need to see each moment as a unique opportunity (a new unit of time).
This view urges mindfulness. It warns against an autopilot mode of being, where the past dictates the future. At recent Vortex staff meetings, our lack of preparation led to discussions that remained on past issues. These meetings missed a focus on creating a deliberate, informed future. The belief that time lag restores normality is misleading. Each moment is inherently different; the world changes within seconds.
The lesson here is twofold: preparation and mindfulness. Every choice, even in routine tasks, is an opportunity to actively shape our circumstances.
This principle of stepping beyond the familiar is what drives our new project with Raghmah. We are building Vortex Ventures Design. It's a bold venture—a risk worth taking, illustrating how stepping beyond the familiar can lead to growth and innovation.
What routines could you reassess to enhance your preparedness?
Consider discussing these insights with a colleague who may also benefit from a fresh perspective on their routines.
Peace!