Think Wrong: How to Conquer the Status Quo and Do Work That Matters by John Bielenberg, Mike Burn, and Greg Galle, with Elizabeth Evitts Dickinson provides a battle plan for taking on the status quo. Included are six principles and eighteen drills you can use to get out of your own way. Regardless of the kind of organization you work in, this book is for you, but only if you want to make big ass changes that will improve your world.

Introduction

• Our human default is to defend and maintain the existing state of affairs also known as the status quo. Thinking Wrong is conquering biology and culture to change how things are to how they might be. Throughout history, the true innovators and pioneers were the ones who thought wrong and often suffered for it, at least in the near term.
• This book will help you move beyond your biases, imagine many solutions, and expand what’s possible. As we age, the synapses we use most get stronger while others are pruned away. It’s time to challenge your brain and your culture at large and learn to Think Wrong.

Who Cares?

• There are five basic types in each organization. Some people can occupy multiple roles. Outlaws are innovators and disruptors who explore new possibilities. They are happy taking risks and aren’t concerned about cultural norms. Shepherds protect outlaws and provide cover while they explore. They help get outlaws’ work to market. Scouts Help the former navigate uncharted paths and locate resources. They often have unique expertise of new territories. Sheriffs enforce law and order and see that the rules are followed. Posses can be deputized to enforce the cultural norms. They help keep things running well. At times the can also support the actions of the outlaws as they mark out new territory.

The Elements of Thinking Wrong

• Your brain’s synaptic pathways control everything you do, which causes us to repeat what we have done if we don’t stop to think about other possibilities. This is compounded when a collection of brains work together, which produces group think and group beliefs.
• The authors have recognized six principals. 1. Be Bold: Dare to make a big difference. 2. Get Out: Find fresh inspiration for non status quo solutions. 3. Let Go: Stretch beyond assumptions, biases, and orthodoxies. 4. Make Stuff: Gain insights through making prototypes. 5. Bet Small: Discover what works without risking it all. 6. Move Fast: Be open so others can help you improve your solutions. For each principal the authors provide three drills so you can pratcice.

The Think Wrong Universe

• Here is the story of the Pie Lab. Thanks to a lot of wrong thinking by five designers, they obtain a building in downtown Greensboro, Alabama and start selling pie, with the rule that the pie must be eaten on site. It quickly becomes a community center hosting many events. It even wins a James Beard Award. It was the first new business on Main Street for years. Other new businesses soon started and it is now a popular tourist stop were people of all races come to what was a segregated location.

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