Navigating Tension Through Strategic Imagination
Here's something that might surprise you — navigating change isn’t just about solving problems, it’s about embracing tension as a creative force. Xavier Jones, writing in Design, suggests that between vision and reality, ambition and constraints, lies a fertile ground for innovation. Instead of fighting this tension, he encourages us to view it through multiple lenses: cultural, philosophical, organizational, and aspirational. The cultural lens connects past and present, revealing patterns and signals worth reimagining. The philosophical lens grounds decisions in core beliefs, ensuring they’re principled and effective. Meanwhile, the organizational lens makes sure ideas are viable within real-world constraints — think resources, systems, and leadership. And the aspirational lens sets a clear, motivating direction — what the future should feel like, not just look like. By combining these perspectives, Xavier points out we can craft solutions that resonate deeply and inspire real engagement. So, the next time you're stuck, remember — tension isn’t a problem. It’s the spark for something better.