Theory U in a nutshell
Reconnecting with our intelligences to collectively imagine the future
Theory
Theory U in a nutshell
Reconnecting with our intelligences to collectively imagine the future
“Theory U” is in fact a meta-model for supporting individual and collective transformations. In an increasingly complex environment, this process, based on listening and observation, provides an opportunity to detach from past experiences and work on limiting beliefs to identify new and customised drivers of transformation. Without judgment or preconceived ideas.
Too often, we set goals that are in fact responses to symptoms. With Theory U, we change the paradigm to search for the root causes of a situation, align our intention with it and generate innovative solutions. We do this with our head, heart and body.
Nathalie Nowak, Imfusio
Based on the work of Friedrich Glasl and Dirk Lemson, Otto Scharmer, lecturer at MIT and founding president of ELIAS (Emerging Leaders for Innovation Across Sectors), popularised Theory U in the 2000s with his book of the same name. It is based on a process with five main phases.
This state of “presencing”, a mixture of perception and presence, is promoted by individual introspection (silence, journaling, interactive walking, drawing, music) and creative approaches in groups (e.g. visual projection of the desired project, Social Presencing Theater, 20 minute dance, 4D mapping, etc.). It allows us to become aware of our belonging to a whole.
As William O’Brien, former CEO of Hanover Insurance Company, points out, “the success of an intervention depends on the interior condition of the intervener.” This is the importance of an approach that integrates emotional intelligence.
To learn more, get a copy of Essentials of Theory U in English.
To access all the tools and practices behind Theory U, visit the Precensing Institute website: u-school.org/presencing