When leading teams, tapping into one’s natural talents is the greatest motivator you can promote within the individual and/or organization. Stumbling upon this theory cemented this notion that we all bring something to the table. No one person can be perfect at all skills, but at their very core may be “better” at one than another. Gardner utilized his theory to provide applicable instances in the K-12 education system, however I believe his theory can be generally applied in the workplace as well.
“The Theory of Multiple Intelligences is a critique of the standard psychological view of intellect: there is a single intelligence, adequately measured by IQ or other short answer tests. Instead, on the basis of evidence from disparate sources, the theory claims that human beings have a number of relatively discrete intellectual capacities” (Beginners Guide). Howard Gardner developed MI theory in the late 1970s and early 1980s.
Upon review of each dimension, I was struck by it’s alignment with intellectual wellness. in the same way we must exercise our bodies for physical wellness, our minds need just as much stimulation to stay “fit”. By knowing which dimension you score higher or lower in, the tool can guide ways to build in natural promotion of activities. For example, I scored a bit higher on intrapersonal skills, so it’s no surprise it “sparks joy” when I blog about getting in touch with your individual wellness :).
However, as I thought about application to my Son, his linguistic abilities certainly rise above the others. He enjoys reading, and is a great public speaker at a young age. It reinforces the need to continue to help him build upon those skills a he grows regardless if another skill he may not be as good in.
I encourage you to reflect upon the chart below, or utilize the resources to learn more about this theory. Perhaps you will find, your co-workers have skills under-utilized or even untapped imperative to improving the business.
In peace,
J
References: CNBC Multiple Intelligence; Multiple Intelligence Beginners Guide; Howard Gardner discusses his theory
