Question

Discuss the concept of polarity management and how you might use it.

Answer 1

Polarity management focuses on finding a way to balance polarities rather than trying to find a solution between the two. It works by throwing out the notion that there is one ''right'' idea and one ''wrong'' idea and moves toward embracing both equally.

Managing polarities doesn't have to be complicated. In fact, it is quite simple. It helps to follow a framework to balance the two.

APPLYING IT TO YOUR OWN LIFE -

We can fill out a polarity map together. Think for a moment about the upside of work and work life, and add your responses to the map. For example, you get paid, you have work relationships that enrich your life, you are able to contribute to society. Now fill out the other side regarding the upside of home life. You can rest and relax, you have family and friends, you keep active with personal interests and hobbies.

Now consider what happens in your life if you over focus on work life and neglect your home life. Relationships at home suffer. You are stressed everywhere. You may ultimately be less productive at work. Or what if you were to pay more attention to home life than work? Work relationships suffer. You might even no longer get paid!

Once the map is filled out, you can create action steps to keep you in the upsides of the polarities, and early warning signs to predict movement towards the downside. Because this is a personal polarity, the action steps and early warnings signs are unique to you and your circumstances