MENTAL PROCESS PAPER

Mental Process Paper

Mental Process Paper

Introduction

Effective organizational leadership requires frequent problem solving. One way of understanding how leaders solve problems is through the concept of mental models. Mental models are effective tools for organizing information so that creative solutions can be generated quickly and effectively. Zaccaro & Banks (2001) mention they are cognitive in nature and, although they are naturally occurring in all individuals, the nature of their occurrence and how they affect problem solving is particularly important to the study of leadership. As applied to leadership, they are organized knowledge structures that contain information about complex systems, whether pertaining to the organization (such as its overall structure, various divisions, teams, and so forth) or in the larger world (for example, industries, conglomerates, and so on). Mental models include as information about how a system works, as well as information on cause-and-effect connections within a system (Zaccaro & Banks, 2001). Mental models also include temporal or categorical linkages, and they organize information about the environmental elements and contingencies that can influence a system's operations.

Creative Intelligence

Creative intelligence is the ability to see and adapt to new situations and solve them. An individual with creative intelligence is able to use innovative thinking and imagination to find new answers to old questions. These individuals think outside of the box and come up with new and different solutions to old problems. Creative intelligence includes four different styles that explain how individuals learn and view the world (Zaccaro & Banks, 2001). A mental model or mindset is an individual through process. Mindsets can have both positive and negative influences on individuals and organizations. It is important for the success of a team that individuals minimize the negative mindsets and focus on the positive.

Four Styles of Creative Intelligence

According to Alan Rowe (2004), “Creative Intelligence reflects how we perceive the world around us. It is concerned both with the way we do things and the outcome or results achieved.” The four styles of creative intelligence are intuition, innovation, imagination, and inspiration. Intuitive style focuses on past experiences for decision making. These individuals tend to be hold jobs such as managers, politicians, and actors. Innovative individuals use factual data to make decisions and solve problems. Inventors, engineers, and scientists are typically innovative. Imaginative deals with being able to think outside of the box by finding new opportunities. Typically artists, musicians, and writers are imaginative. Inspirational individuals focus on the social aspect of problem solving. These individuals lead by inspiring the group and tend to be educators, leaders, and writers.

These styles of creative intelligence have different ways of influencing an organization and decision making. Individuals with creative intelligence are open to new possibilities and willing to risk failure (Stout, Cannon and Milanovich, 1999). These individuals work hard and are not necessarily looking for a reward. In an organization, a good idea is to mix the different intelligence styles in a group so they can all work together, filling different voids. Creative individuals often work outside of their comfort zone ...