The Pitfalls of Tunnel Vision

Overcoming Blind Spots as a Leader

Photo by Manuel bonadeo on Unsplash

As a leader, it's easy to get focused on one specific goal or task and neglect other important aspects of your role. This is known as tunnel vision. While having a clear focus can be helpful, having tunnel vision can have serious drawbacks.

One problem with tunnel vision is that it can lead to missed opportunities. Leaders who only focus on one area may overlook potential solutions, innovations, or even threats that lie outside their narrow field of vision. This can limit the growth and success of the organization.

Another problem is that tunnel vision can lead to poor decision-making. Leaders who only see one aspect of a situation may not have the full picture, and can make decisions that are not in the best interest of their organization.

So how can leaders overcome their blind spots and lead with a clear vision? Firstly, it's important to take a step back and assess the situation from multiple angles. This helps leaders see the bigger picture and make informed decisions. Secondly, leaders should seek out diverse perspectives, such as talking to different team members, conducting market research, or seeking feedback from stakeholders. This can help broaden a leader's perspective and avoid the pitfalls of tunnel vision. Finally, leadership coaching can help you expand your perspective, challenge your assumptions, and break through the barriers of tunnel vision, resulting in more effective decision-making and impactful leadership.

Ultimately, being aware of tunnel vision and making conscious efforts to avoid it can lead to better decision-making and improved outcomes for the organization. A leader who sees clearly and leads with a comprehensive vision is better equipped to succeed.