Can reading fictional books be that crucial to our emotional intelligence? Christine Seifert from Harvard Business Review has made a compelling case in her post “The Case for Reading Fiction”.
Here’s the reasons discussed in the post why embracing fiction in the workplace matters:
- Empathy and Critical Thinking: Fictional narratives immerse us in diverse perspectives, enhancing our ability to understand others’ motivations and navigate complex situations.
- Navigating Complexity: Fictional characters grapple with intricate dilemmas, providing a framework to approach nuanced discussions within teams.
- Expanding Worldviews: Engaging with literature challenges our preconceived notions, encouraging us to explore multiple valid viewpoints—a skill vital in decision-making.
- Building Open-Mindedness: Studies show that reading literary fiction cultivates an open mind, essential for effective decision-making in dynamic environments.
- Resisting Quick Conclusions: Literature compels us to process information thoughtfully, reducing our tendency to rush to conclusions—a hallmark of sound emotional intelligence.
- Promoting Authentic Conversations: Fictional scenarios create a safe space for authentic dialogues, where participants feel free to explore sensitive and intricate topics.
Summary of the post
Investing in guided literary discussions can lead to more engaged, collaborative, and thoughtful teams. As Marvin Riley, CEO of EnPro Industries, discovered, this approach can foster psychological safety, critical thinking, and effective communication—a testament to the power of literature in the workplace.
Remember, quality reading begets quality thinking. To develop sharper, more insightful minds in the business world, we must first cultivate avid readers.
I guess I’ll be curled up by the fireplace reading “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho, as soon as the weather cools down.
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