Navigating the Dynamics of Thought: Bridging the Gap Between Deep Thinkers and Fast Thinkers (part 1)

When working with teams, I often see 2 contrasting styles of thinking: deep thinking and fast thinking. In the dynamic landscape of collaborative work places I see this difference be an obstacle in working together effectively and the cause of a great deal of stress in the team.

I've noticed that these thinking styles are not isolated. In this newsletter I explore both styles of thinking and how they align with the temperaments of introversion and extroversion; deep thinking being associated with introversion and fast thinking with extroversion. 

Both styles are equally valuable; it's the lack of awareness that brings trouble in the team. Let's explore what each style looks like, explore pros and cons of each style (part 1) and identify strategies (part 2) for each style to be more effective with each other, honoring their innate styles.

Deep thinkers are taking time to process information in a methodical and thorough way. They prefer to give a well thought out answer instead of saying something just for the sake of speaking up. The advantage for a team is that the deep thinker offers critical analysis, an innovative approach, and thorough understanding of issues. Deep thinkers are more likely to grasp the complexity and nuances of a situation or a problem. 

Introverts, who tend to lean towards deep thinking, take longer to formulate an answer. That is why it's challenging for many introverts to speak up during meetings. Introverts may overthink and edit themselves while formulating an answer. They tend to be slow in decision making or even suffer from decision making paralysis. This can lead to exclusion from the discussion or even the team. Introverts often are challenged in effective collaboration in fast -paced group oriented environments. The process of deep thinking might not be a good fit for situations that require quick decisions. 

Extroverts's response to the deep thinker is to be impatient, seeing the introverted team member or leader as being reserved and aloof, not participating in the fast brainstorm or decision making process. 

Fast thinkers, on the other hand, excel in situations that require quick adjustment and decisions. They can think on their feet and deal promptly with changing circumstances. Fast thinkers are efficient and are effective in high-pressure situations. They possess a social agility that allows them to quickly grasp social cues and adjust their behavior accordingly. 

Potentially, fast thinkers rely on superficial analysis when making quick decisions; decisions are often impulsive and lack consideration. This can lead to mistakes. Also, I've seen the constant need for speed can be stressful to fast thinkers and they may feel overwhelmed, especially when they face complex problems.

Extroverts, who are preferring fast thinking and thrive in social settings are quick to adapt and they appear ready for action, outgoing and sociable. 

Introverts' experience of fast thinkers are that they are weak listeners, making snap decisions without careful consideration and taking risks. The extrovert's impatience is expressed in interrupting, taking up a lot of airspace in meetings, often lacking a well thought out analysis. 

Team members need to be thoughtful and inclusive in their approach if they want an effective collaborative experience in their teams. Recognizing the strengths of each thinking style and understanding the connection with the different temperaments sets the stage for effective collaboration. 

In the next newsletter I will give suggestions for strategies for both Introverts and Extroverts, to bridge the gap between deep thinking and fast thinking, creating a productive and inclusive work environment with stronger outcomes. 

Are you a fast thinker or a deep thinker? Share your #1 strategy below that you have found is bridging the gap with other thinking styles in your team.