From my earliest PhD research into the ‘Cost-Trust Relationship’ at construction sites, to observing broader societal shifts, it’s evident: Trust is not just a social nicety—it’s an economic imperative. This article examines the decline of trust in our society, its direct impact on project costs, and how personal actions can foster a more trustworthy environment.
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An introduction to the “embodied mind” perspective that is changing the way we think about what it means to be human. This article tells the story of how I stumbled across it, what it tells us, and how it came to be developed.
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In the realm of project management, understanding the human factor is crucial for success. The emerging scientific field of the embodied mind paradigm offers profound insights into the intricate interplay between our minds, bodies, and the environment. By integrating this perspective, project professionals can unlock new dimensions of productivity, creativity, and collaboration. This article aims to introduce the concept of the embodied mind paradigm, emphasizing the depth of scientific evidence supporting it, and providing a clear understanding of what it entails.
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The elusive success of projects and humanity’s struggle with global issues point to the role of human nature and cognition in these challenges. Insights from neuroscience and psychology, including theories from Damasio, Barrett, Kahneman, Seth, and McGilchrist, provide new perspectives on decision-making and team dynamics. A significant observation is McGilchrist’s idea of the Western world’s left-hemisphere dominance possibly leading to an overemphasis on control in project management. Integrating these insights could enhance project outcomes and our collective response to global issues, necessitating a shift championed by project leaders, educators, and researchers.
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Despite advances in project management, the majority of projects fail to deliver on their promises. This article argues that these failures reflect broader issues in our understanding of human nature and behavior. By viewing projects as deeply human endeavors and integrating insights from neuroscience, psychology, sociology, and other fields, we can foster a more holistic approach to project management. Prioritizing human factors, promoting adaptability, and engaging diverse stakeholders are among the strategies suggested for improving project outcomes and enhancing our collective ability to address complex global challenges. The need for a shift towards a more holistic, human-centered approach to projects is not only a matter of project success but also of societal sustainability and resilience.
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