Quantum Leadership

Thursday, 19. August 2010 by Ronald T. Brown, Ph.D.

Until the recent advent of “Quantum theory,” a Newtonian mindset ruled much of scientific thinking. In Newton’s world, “space” is an empty vacuum. Yet in the emerging science of Quantum physics, space is not empty – but contains real, yet invisible “fields” which fill and structure our entire universe.

In Quantum theory, the space around you and I is a bustling profusion of forces and energies. One can think of the Quantum universe as an “ocean” where penetrating creative forces connect everything to everything else – no matter how far separated by time or distance.

** When applying Quantum theory to organizations and leadership, new perspectives start to emerge. The “Newtonian” style Leader tends to “give” their vision, and other directives, to their company – then the job of employees is to quickly arrive at the leader’s preferred vision and destination. Sometimes the leader will use fear to get everyone to the destination; other times, they may use various incentives – hoping that will do the trick.

The “Quantum” Leader understands there is an invisible geometry of fields filling the space of their organization. They know these fields are very powerful, and serve as a prevailing force influencing behavioral and organizational outcomes. Though some leaders may label these fields their “organizational culture,” this is not completely accurate.  Though culture may reflect some of these forces, science is discovering that these forces run much deeper than mere cultural issues.

The Quantum Leader realizes these invisible, yet very real fields and forces are constantly “creating reality” – and thus greatly impact everything their employees are doing. These fields are primarily being “constructed” by the emotions, beliefs, and intentions of each manager and employee in the organization. (For more information on Quantum Physics, see information below.)

Therefore, the Quantum Leader creates and nourishes the context where everyone (not just executives or managers) are “field creators” – through ongoing conversations and actions that continuously reinforce the preferred attitudes, beliefs, behaviors, and intentions of employees.

Since in Quantum Theory space is never “empty,” visionary leaders know their organizational space needs to be proactively filled with coherent vision, values, belief, positive intentions, and integrity.

Challenge: If this Quantum stuff sounds like hocus pocus to you – then increase your understanding of the creative power of this emerging science through your reading. You can start by reviewing information on Wikipedia – then go from there…