It’s easy to feel powerless in trying to tackle what design theorists Rittel and Webber call a “wicked problem.” These complex challenges resist simple solutions. Often people are polarized in the way they think about the issue. We may not agree on what the problem is or even whether it’s a problem at all.
However, wicked problems don’t disappear when we avoid them. Although there are no easy solutions, we can choose to meet these challenges with curiosity and courage. Systems Inspired™ coaching and leadership creates a space where we can work with complexity together.
The issue belongs to the system
Wicked problems must be tackled collectively, and often on multiple levels. Working with the system shifts the focus. We begin to look at issues as being collectively ours to untangle.
The four toxins of blame, contempt, defensiveness and stonewalling – what John Gottman calls ‘the four horsemen of the apocalypse‘ – erode trust and shut down communication. As systems coaches, we focus on building (or re-building) collaborative relationship.
Conflict in itself isn’t the problem. Instead, it is a signal that something isn’t working. Rather than avoiding disagreement, the goal is to navigate it so that a new way of being can emerge.
As relationship systems coaches, we create a safe space for all voices to be expressed and valued.
What becomes possible when we begin to see conflict as an opportunity for growth and transformation?
Exploring perspectives
Many wicked problems involve different viewpoints bumping up against one another. Systems work recognizes that all voices in a relationship system need to be heard, even the unpopular ones.
Relationship systems coaching begins with setting ground rules that help to navigate conflict in a healthy and respectful way. Before tackling an issue that will challenge us both intellectually and emotionally, first decide on what behaviours will serve the group.
The Designed Team Alliance is a starting point in coaching relationship systems. This tool establishes expectations and creates trust. For instance, you might agree to be both honest and respectful in the way that you communicate with one another. (Find details on how this tool works in our Meet, Reveal, Align & Act article.)
Leadership can come from anywhere in the system
When we learn to tap into collective intelligence rather than looking to leaders to provide all of the answers, we open to exponential possibility. Thinking outside the box may be exactly what’s needed to develop innovative strategies.
Systems have their own intelligence
In addressing wicked problems, we become deeply aware of how actions in one part of the system can ripple across to affect another. Remedies filter across a system in the same way.
Just as we all have a part in a complex issue, we can also share responsibility in finding answers. Change begins with a conversation.
Curious about how systems work can help in untangling wicked problems? Learn more about Organization and Relationship Systems Coaching.
Guests
Michelle Davis ORSCC, CDTLF, ICF-PCC, LPC
Michelle Davis is Director of Strategic Worldwork and a member of the CRR Global faculty. Her work centers on developing people in service of healthier systems, from relationships and teams to organizations and society. At every level, she supports shifts in how people connect across differences, fostering the self-awareness needed to bridge divides and co-create a more just and generative future.
Linda Berlot ORSCC, ICF-PCC
Linda is a human development specialist with over 19 years of experience in leadership development, organizational change, and team dynamics, working with diverse organizations to create alignment and drive performance. Based in the UAE since 2004, she is an ICF-certified coach, ORSC Partner, and CRR Global faculty member, training executives and teams across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. Linda has collaborated with global corporations in industries such as luxury retail, hospitality, and banking, with clients including Emirates, Bayer, Etisalat, and Chanel, delivering impactful results during times of change.
Marita Fridjhon ORSCC, ESIA, ICF-PCC
Marita Fridjhon is co-founder of CRR Global, co-creator of the world-recognized Organization and Relationship Systems Coaching (ORSC™) program and mentor to an ever-growing community of relationship systems practitioners. Her deeply integrative approach is drawn from her foundations in clinical social work, family systems therapy and organizational consulting. Marita is co-author of “Systems Inspired Leadership” and “Creating Intelligent Teams.“
Shawn Moore ORSC
The Dr. Rev. Shawn Moore is adept at juggling complexity. As an ex-Navy security specialist with a DMin in public theology, a pastor and professor, a martial arts instructor and former police officer, he has learned to see beyond polarities. His ORSC training helps him to support others to find common ground.
