The next time you're faced with an organizational dilemma, you might want to summon the wisdom of a literary character.
by Site Staff
March 10, 2009
The next time you’re faced with an organizational dilemma, you might want to summon the wisdom of a literary character. That may sound a bit quirky, but the idea that reading fiction affects the way we manage in the workplace is no tall tale. According to a Times of India article, fiction impacts the way people deal with life’s challenges more than any other genre.!@!
While many of us realize this — a recent study shows that more adults are reading literature than in the past — organizational leaders often overlook reading as a training method. When they do promote reading, they tend to mean business books. But, as the article put it, in this “horrific economic environment, which has turned traditional management wisdom on its head,” why not be open to other kinds of books? One executive who was interviewed in the Times of India article said managers should read fiction because “it illustrates real-life experiences, which shape a person's ability to manage people.”
Along with those benefits, reading fiction offers an escape from reality, which is something that overworked professionals certainly can use these days. Starting a book club in your organization can help employees discover this de-stressor. Beyond that, it also may help them connect better with one another and improve morale. For example, if they learn that a hard-shelled manager is addicted to the Harry Potter series, then that person might seem more approachable.
To sum it up, encouraging fiction could improve workplace synergy, and expand the learning repertoire of each individual. So, if you find yourself reaching for a management guide this evening, consider curling up with something a bit more whimsical. Let me know of some titles you’ve recently enjoyed in the Comment section below.