MASTER Risk Model - Learning Resources - Mindset

Cognitive Adaptability

Read a viewpoint opposite to yours on a management issue—summarize its strongest point in one sentence.

Ask yourself: “What’s another way to view this?” when reacting strongly to a team issue.

Change one small leadership habit today—alter the order, method, or tool you usually use.

Read an article outside your field—note one idea to apply in your leadership practice.

Challenge your default leadership choice in a low-stakes task—try the opposite approach.

Use the phrase “That’s interesting—tell me more” when a team member challenges your view.

Emotional Adaptability

When a team conflict arises, pause and name your emotion—labeling it reduces its control over you.

Use a grounding question during stress: “What am I feeling, and does it help my team right now?”

Before sending a tense email, pause and re-edit—replace reactivity with calmer words.

Repeat the phrase: “I choose my response” before entering a tough or tense conversation.

Take a breath or smile before responding to bad news—reset your emotional tone first.

Do a quick body scan before meetings—notice tension and release it for steadier presence.

Behavioral Adaptability

In your next team meeting, shift your style—listen more if you speak often, speak more if you stay quiet.

Adjust one recurring team routine today—try a different format and observe the impact.

Observe an entire team discussion before speaking—adapt to the group’s rhythm before joining.

Say yes to something you’d normally decline—document how trying it differently affects outcomes.

Try a new feedback style with your team today—if direct, ask more questions; if soft, be clearer.

Work from a new location or change your routine—observe how it shifts your leadership energy.

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