“We cannot solve our problems with the same thinking we used when we created them.” — Albert Einstein
I first encountered this thought while reading Stephen Covey’s book, The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People. In it, the author presents two different paradigms (beliefs) regarding the foundation of success in life: the Personality Ethic and the Character Ethic.
Those whose thinking is governed by the Personality Ethic believe that quick success can be achieved simply by finding the right way to influence or manipulate others. In contrast, those dominated by the Character Ethic seek long-term success, which is achieved in an entirely different way—through the daily application of timeless values such as justice, humanity, responsibility, and care.
The core thesis of this magnificent book is that organizational problems are often caused by the application of the Personality Ethic and therefore cannot be solved at that same level of thinking. A radical shift in the paradigm of what success is and how it is achieved is required. This is where Einstein’s quote becomes essential.
Reading Covey brought me true relief, as I realized that the world—though still slowly and hesitantly—is moving toward positive change, forced by the mounting problems created by the Personality Ethic. It also provided further confirmation that the mental health of organizations is subject to the same rules as the mental health of individuals.
One such rule is that efforts to solve our problems must be directed inward, toward ourselves and our own thinking, rather than outward. Einstein knew this very well, and the laws of physics, business consulting, and psychotherapy are remarkably similar.
Real change starts from the inside-out, and this thought comes to you now as a reminder of that truth.
Kameliya Hadzhiyska
