Multiple Dimensions and Layers of Wonder

First, Wonder is the starting point for Meaningful Work

Wonder, as one of the Six Types of Working Genius, is the genius where opportunity is seen. This identified potential ooccurs in response to what is seen in the environment, either Macro or Micro (keep reading). Wonder will take the form of thoughtful, open-ended questions or statements that uncover possibilites or highlight areas for growth. Wonder is not about answering the question of potential (that’s invention) but about noticing what could be and exploring them until you can articulate the opportunity or challenge that needs solving.

The genius of Wonder plays a vital role in identifying what could or should be improved, asking questions like:

• What are we missing?

• Is this the best we can do?

• What if we tried a different approach?

• Are we solving the right problem?

These questions create space for reflection and ensure that the work begins with clarity and purpose. Wonder slows down the rush to action, which to many feels counterintuitive (and when done with ill-timing can be). However, Wonder is the foundation for meaningful and innovative work because it’s the first activity of work. It is the spark that lights the path for an idea to emerge and mature.

What You Need to Know

Macro Level: The Broad Perspective

The Macro level of Wonder represents the broadest perspective from which work begins. A clear example of this can be seen in entrepreneurship. Entrepreneurs always start by identifying potential within a specific market or industry. They spot an opportunity to introduce a new solution. This initial observation of opportunity in the world—seeing what could be—is Wonder at a Macro level. It sets the stage for all subsequent work.

Once the opportunity is recognized and defined, the remaining geniuses come into play. Invention and Discernment create and refine a solution to meet the identified opportunity. Then, Galvanizing, Enablement, and Tenacity follow to motivate people, execute plans, and deliver the final “product.” This continuous process for meeting that opportunity that’s been identified, is work that’s happening on a Macro level.

Another way to consider Wonder from the Macro level is in the context of major projects or priorities. Here, it involves observations or questions that influence the overarching direction of a project. The key to remember is that if a project is already deep into implementation, engaging in Macro-level Wonder will create turbulence because it calls the main priority into question.

Micro Level: Focused Wonder

Micro-level Wonder is still a high elevation activity, but it occurs within the context of an existing priority or project. It doesn’t question the project’s validity or introduce new opportunities that might distract from the current focus. Instead, it observes the environment and identifies opportunities for improvement to elevate the existing work.

For instance, imagine your marketing team has decided to create a monthly newsletter. On a Micro level, Wonder might involve identifying areas to enhance the newsletter such as its design, content, or distribution methods. But it is NOT challenging the fundamental decision to create the newsletter.

Micro-level Wonder will exist on multiple layers. It might address processes, policies, or external factors that impact the execution of the priority. For example, it could explore how to streamline workflows or refine messaging  because of the observations made in connection with those contexts.

External vs. Internal Wonder

Another nuance to consider Wonder is through these two key lenses: External and Internal.

External Wonder focuses on the environment from outside the organization. It identifies opportunities or threats beyond the organizational boundaries, such as market trends, technological advancements, or shifts in consumer behavior. For example, asking how AI might impact your industry or organization represents External Wonder. This perspective can bring to your attention potential risks or highlight untapped opportunities that align with your mission, vision, and values.

Internal Wonder examines opportunities within the organization. Unlike External Wonder, observations are primarily from within the organization. Here, it stays focused on optimizing internal processes, workflows, or culture without questioning the main objectives or priorities. For example, Internal Wonder might involve exploring whether team dynamics need strengthening or pinpointing operational processes that are ineffective.

The Role of Wonder Within the Geniuses

When seen through the lens of the Six Types of Working Genius, Wonder acts as the starting point for identifying potential and driving curiosity. However, its effectiveness depends on the context it is used. At the Macro level, it’s a catalyst for setting direction and framing big-picture goals. At the Micro level, it sharpens execution by fostering improvements and optimizations that support established priorities.

But Wonder takes time…but to many individuals (typically those with Geniuses beyond Ideation) Wonder feels like it’s not “real work”.

So, let me ask you this: Is the direction of your team’s vision, energy and resources important? Because if it is, then Wonder must be seen as an equally critical component of your work rhythm.

If all Wonder ever does is to act as the accountability component to ensure that “real work” is aligned your vision, it’s worth it.