Leadership Paradox and Polarity

Paradox Definition

In precise terms, paradox differs from polarity in that, within a paradox, no choice need be made between two or more contradictions. Both operate simultaneously. The key characteristic in paradox is the simultaneous presence of contradictory, even mutually exclusive, elements.

Paradox is Not

• Dilemma: an either/or situation where one alternative must be selected over other attractive alternatives.
• Irony: exists when an unexpected or contradictory outcome arises from a single alternative.
• Inconsistency: an aberration or discontinuity from past patterns.
• Dialectic: a pattern that always begins with a thesis followed by an antithesis and resolved by a synthesis.
• Ambivalence: uncertainty over which two or more attractive (or unattractive) alternatives should be chosen.
• Conflict: the perpetuation of one alternative at the expense of others.
• Compromise: a settlement of differences in which each side makes concessions.

Paradox is the metaphor for the central dimension of the Authentic Action Wheel. This 45 page ebook includes excerpts from Seven Zones For Leadership and other articles, essays and training materials on paradox and polarity as taught by Bob Terry. It provides a framework for understanding polarities and paradoxes, learning to frame perceived opposites and moving from an either/or mindset to a both/and mentality. You will discover how to discern between imagined problems and real ones and how to deal with unsolvable problems

Paradox and Polarity wisdom is a core competency yet it rarely shows up on leadership skill lists. Paradoxical living is even harder.

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Polarity definition

Examples of Polarities

• Individual—Team
• Part—Whole
• Inside—Outside
• Nature—Nurture
• Up—Down
• One—Many (Unity—Diversity)

"Some problems are not solvable because they embody polarities. A polarity is the possession or manifestation of two opposing attributes, tendencies or principles that are interdependent. They identify a relationship that is ongoing and raises issues that do not go away". ~ Barry Johnson Managing Polarities

"Contradiction, paradox, the tension of opposites: These have always been at the heart of my experience, and I think I am not alone. I am tugged one way and then the other. My beliefs and my actions often seem at odds. My strengths are sometimes cancelled by my weaknesses. My self, and the world around me, seem more a study in dissonance than a harmony of the integrated whole. ~ Parker Palmer, The Promise of Paradox, p. 15, 1980

Related Links:

Authentic Leadership: Courage in Action

Seven Zones for Leadership

On Being a Secular Theologian

For Whites Only

Leadership Choices

Leadership Metaphors

Leadership Ethics

More ebooks by Bob Terry

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