Adaptive intelligence for organisations. In today’s conversation Judith Germain speaks to Gary Coulton about harnessing adaptive intelligence. Gary has recently realised that he is neurodivergent, with a “maverick mind” and he explains how this knowledge has helped him understand why he thinks in a certain way.
You can listen to Episode 464 on any of the popular podcast platforms or apps (including Spotify, and Audible). If you prefer to listen to your browser you can do that below. Enjoy!
Key Takeaways
- Adaptive intelligence integrates heart, head, and gut “minds” to make wiser decisions
- Core human values (e.g. love, trust, honesty) are consistent across cultures when accessed through compassion
- Self-awareness and aligning with core values is key for leaders and organisations to build trust
- Neurodivergent traits can be both an asset and challenge for entrepreneurs as companies scale
Topics
Gary Coulton’s Background
- 68-year-old former biomedical scientist and university dean
- Transitioned to executive coaching and writing after 32-year academic career
- Recently discovered he is neurodivergent (likely autistic/ADHD)
- Authored memoir “Demons to Champions” about embracing neurodivergent traits
Adaptive Intelligence Concept
- Integrates three “minds”: heart (emotions/values), head (intellect), and gut (instinct/courage)
- Heart mind provides foundation of core values and compassion
- Head mind merges creative and analytical thinking
- Gut mind provides final decision validation through physical sensations
- Practicing with daily trivial decisions builds skill for larger choices
Core Values Exercise
- Participants select values from a list, first intellectually then after compassion meditation
- Consistently reveals 9-10 shared “heart” values across cultures (e.g. love, trust, honesty)
- Provides foundation for authentic leadership and organisational alignment
- May require guidance for neurodivergent individuals to avoid masking/false values
Application to Leadership and Organisations
- Leaders should embody stated organisational values consistently
In this conversation Gary discusses how organisations can enable leaders to develop and apply adaptive intelligence, focusing on:
- Helping employees and customers “fall in love” with the company’s products/services by aligning with its values
- Ensuring leaders model the desired values and behaviours
- Embedding a system of shared values and accountability within teams and the broader organisation
The human mind and its complexities fascinate Gary. He’s an innovator, inventor, scientific researcher, business owner and obsessed marathon kayaker. His hyperactive maverick brain, once a curse, is now his strength.
Gary Coulton can be found on LinkedIn here.
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