The Two Minute Challenge
April 26, 2008
In 1982, Kenneth H Blanchard and Spencer Johnson wrote a book called The One Minute Manager. This became a classic and has sold millions of copies and is still widely read today. The accessible, practical style of the book invited readers as well as the potency of its three core practices for managers. These are
- The One Minute Goal
- The One Minute Praise
- The One Minute Reprimand
I would like to update these concepts for today’s manager in what I have called The Two Minute Challenge. The aim with this challenge is to select a problem, opportunity or issue and give yourself two minutes to create at least nine different responses. Do not attempt to filter your ideas—just let them flow. No idea is a silly one as it could provide a bridge to another more practical one.
The Two Minute Challenge can be used by anyone, everyday, on most sorts of problems. When time is short it is an ideal way to create some movement or new starting points. Because the time is so short it means that you will have to access the power of your unconscious. It is the essence of Speed Thinking.
The Two Minute Challenge can also be used to make better decisions. In two minutes write down at least nine rational factors involved in selecting an alternative e.g. does it make money. Then in the next two minutes capture at least nine emotional considerations e.g. do I feel passionate about it? Then use both of these lists to help you make a more considered decision.
The Two Minute Challenge is a new way for you to thrive in a time-poor world. If you have Two Minutes you can make a difference!
Dr. Ken Hudson, Founder
The Speed Thinking Zone
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