MSOD 612 Reading, Writing, Reflection Assignment Lynne Forbes-Zeller

1. Take action to improve my well-being and effectiveness. Describe what you did,
what you expected would happen, and what happened.
Reflecting upon data from Rock’s Your Brain at Work (201xx) and the results of the
Developing Dynamic Attention (DDA) handout, I decided to do my mini behavior change
experiment using a mind map to address statements I checked on the DDA handout.
In preparation, I read a few articles and learned mind mapping captures thoughts
and brings those thoughts into a visual form. To become more creative, remember more
details, organize information and solve problems more effectively, I can utilize mind
mapping. It is a technique that I will leverage as I explore thesis topics and organize
thesis information.
My ability to think is limited just like my willpower, so a goal will be to remove
distractions and not multitask. Mapping out goals will help me reduce distractions (DDA
statement 1), organize my thoughts, and prioritize work tasks. The mind mapping
process may influence other statements identified on the DDA handout such as
statements 3, 7, 8, and 10. If completing a mind map reduces distractions I have more
space on my stage. A more open stage will help me activate my director and become
more attuned to my thoughts and feelings during process.
I am thinking about Rock’s concept of playing against yourself to increase my status.
A method to elevate my status is finding a way to become more organized (2009). This
high-status feeling will help my brain process more information, including more subtle
ideas with less effort. With a reduced threat response, I am more able to think on
multiple levels at once (Rock, 20xx). A feeling of higher status should help ideas flow for
my mind map. Having a sense of elevated status should also increase my dopamine,
serotonin, and testosterone levels. Increased testosterone will also provide focus, and
help me to feel confident and stronger. Knowing these benefits gives me greater
confidence to start and finish my mind map.
I mapped thesis topics for my mind map. I paused and took time to observe and
reflect on what is happening at the moment (Statement 3). Summarize if what I
expected would happen occurred, and what happened; It felt great; it is freeing, I am
less stress and more free to work on critical goals.
MSOD 612 Reading, Writing, Reflection Assignment Lynne Forbes-Zeller

2. Read Mindsight (paying close attention to ch 8-10) be in a state of curiosity,

openness, and acceptance. Note what resonates with you. Summarize your
insights about what will increase your self-compassion and self-acceptance.

3. What is your aspiration for the three marriages? Include a brief description of the
current state of each of your marriages.
Self-marriage with lies underneath the other two marriages work and relationships
I aspire to be authentic and to have balance between the three marriages.
Due to the constant need to I view the marriage with our self to be the most challenging.
It’s “connected to the great questions of life that refuse to go away.” In our world of non-
stop busyness, the cracks of silence that open can reveal an unfamiliar character.
Developing this inner relationship, “we see not only the truth of our present
circumstances and a way forward but we also realize how short our stay is on this
earth.” (Whyte, 200X)

4. Which of Schein’s inquiry types resonates with me and which type do I find
challenging?
I enjoyed and found reading this book to be very helpful. Most days I
conduct multiple Helping Discussions throughout the day. It is helpful to see the
styles of inquiry identified and paired with the appropriate questions and case
scenarios.
I have practiced all four methods of inquiry. Pure Inquiry would be the
method that resonates the most and the method I use most frequently. A core
activity for me is building up the client’s status and confidence and checking in
with the client to see how I might support day-to-day performance challenges.
Pure Inquiry is casual and feels more relational. I use the inquiry methods
Confrontational and Process Oriented regularly with my husband. In this scenario
trust is established, I can be more direct. Despite having trust established with
my husband, which allows me to be direct quicker, after learning about the
MSOD 612 Reading, Writing, Reflection Assignment Lynne Forbes-Zeller

brain’s need for status I have adjusted my language. I now monitor and adjust my
language to prevent reducing his status.
The Diagnostic Inquiry method resonates the least. This style of
questioning on some level reminds me of an inquisitive parent. Specifically, the
act of focusing on elements in the story the client has not reported to guide and
to influence the client’s mental process. With four styles of redirection, this inquiry
method is more complicated to learn and practice. I also believe the Diagnostic
Inquiry if not done correctly, could quickly off-putting to a client and may destroy
trust.

5. After completing the readings for this course, what captured your interest? What
questions are unanswered?
MSOD 612 Reading, Writing, Reflection Assignment Lynne Forbes-Zeller

References