Why chaos needs time
I’m constantly navigating between two modes:
Designer mode
Doer mode
The designer mode is about creating environments for good work to emerge. The doer mode is about crafting work yourself. The designer thinks longer-term. The doer thinks shorter-term.
And here lies the dilemma.
I love doing stuff quickly. But it also creates a dopamine effect. So it's healthy for me to practise the designer mode on occasion. Especially if you consider what Georgia O'Keeffe said:
“To see takes time, like to have a friend takes time.”
This is true for strategic problems and creative answers.
Clarity happens after chaos. But the chaos part must happen. It means you’re exploring widely. Ensuring stones are being turned. And in crunch periods, it can feel like chaos is all there is.
Then… poof.
One good night's sleep unlocks it. Or a slow walk in the park. Or a pleasant conversation. You see the words, or an image, emerge in your head. This is what it means to see by taking our time.
Of course, this isn't always possible. Some projects are tiiiiiiiight. But whenever you can, that's the job. To design conditions that allow everyone to see. To make it ok to not know yet. Because, in time, we will know. And today’s chaos yields tomorrow’s clarity.
