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Paradox mindset scale. While embracing these tensions leverages .
- Paradox mindset scale. Her research reveals the benefits of paradox mindset for creativity, learning, and success, and inspires leaders and entrepreneurs to cultivate “both/and” thinking. ” The #1 factor that makes small businesses thrive in the Feb 3, 2022 · Paradox Mindset in Management: Theory and Measurement February 2022 Journal of Positive Management 11 (1):3–12 DOI: 10. , Sample 3), in China (Table 1, Sample 4) and in the US (Table 1, All comparisons indicated that the model fit was best when two separate factors emerged, confirming the convergent and divergent validity of our multicultural paradox mindset scale 5 . Nov 1, 2019 · Newly developed theories and measures enable more micro-level research of paradoxes. Accordingly, we In addition, this study advances our knowledge of the psychological mechanisms regarding how individuals with a paradox mindset respond to innovation paradox, making innovative things happen, which verifies that a paradox lens can bring new insights and creative benefits to organizational actors (Miron-Spektor and Erez, 2017; Miron-Spektor et Dec 1, 2023 · Organizational systems are drenched in tensions and paradoxes. Therefore, the teachings and heuristics on embracing paradoxes encourage founders to innovate creatively by accepting contradictory elements, ultimately developing their paradox mindset. The results highlight paradox mindset as a key to unlocking the potential of everyday tensions. Their research finds that that (1) resource scarcity is associated with employees experiencing tensions, and (2) increased experience with tensions and a paradox mindset is associated with increased creativity, innovation, and performance. Ingram, J. Jan 10, 2024 · Practitioner points A paradox mindset supports the efficient implementation of a digital transformation (DT) strategy. May 5, 2020 · In our work, we developed a theory on paradox mindset and validated a scale that enabled us to measure it. 13, p , . Keywords: paradox, mindset, contradiction, resources, time pressure, performance, innovation Paradox has to be accepted, coped with and made sense of, in life, work, and in the community and among Paradox mindset Paradox mindset (PM) is defined as a tendency to value, accept, and feel comfortable with tensions (Miron-Spektor et al. Although Miron-Spektor et al. To shed light on this issue, we differentiate between cognitive and behavioral influences on followers' paradox mindset development. 33, SE 5 . , a paradox mindset). You may face pressure, for example, to reach globally while addressing local demands, to plan and schedule while being flexible and adaptive, and more. Drawing on contingency and paradox theory, the article investigates the impact of two processing modes – value-congruent behavior and paradox mindset – on decision-making confidence. Dec 14, 2020 · Want to Be More Creative (and Successful)? Science Says Embrace the Paradox Mindset Research shows embracing seeming contradictions can make you even more creative–which could help you become In our work, we developed a theory on paradox mindset and validated a scale that enabled us to measure it. W. False. Individuals with a paradox mindset respond to a contradictory situation by cultivating optimism about their ability to navigate challenging situations. Our paper advances paradox theory by drawing on the paradox mindset scale to better understand how individuals deal with emotions. We propose a multilevel model based on self-determination theory that examines the effects of a paradox mindset on individuals’ innovative work Jan 1, 2023 · The paradox mindset and contradictions can impact previously held assumptions, allowing to perceive a situation from a whole new perspective. When employees expect complex business model changes, managers should provide additional information about the DT strategies Sep 3, 2025 · Therefore, we recommend further investigating the conceptual and empirical distinctiveness of paradox mindset from self-efficacy (e. Aug 1, 2017 · PDF | On Aug 1, 2017, Ella Miron-Spektor and others published Microfoundations of Organizational Paradox: Paradox Mindset, Limited Resources and Tensions | Find, read and cite all the research you Apr 15, 2017 · We also demonstrate that a paradox mindset – the extent to which one is accepting of and energized by tensions – can help individuals leverage them to improve in-role job performance and To examine the validity of the experiencing tensions and paradox mindset scales, we included scales of other related constructs. While embracing these tensions leverages The paradoxical mindset acts as a mechanism to translate paradoxical leadership into transformational learning outcomes. In addition, fl building on Paradox theory, we focus on the individual differences in budget goals attainment drawing on the concept of paradox mindset and predict that hybrid professionals ability to think paradoxically is an important individual-level mechanism that accounts for higher budgetary performance. Jul 24, 2025 · This study analyzed the influence of health-promoting leadership, transactional leadership, and their asymmetric combination on employees’ performance and well-being, drawing on the conservation of resources theory. Adopt a long-term mindset: Firm earnings calls show above-average mentions of terms related to long-term mindset relative to industry peers in the two years leading up to the transformation. Abstract The purpose of this paper is to empirically examine the effects of paradox mindset on work engagement, considering two employees’ proactive behaviors: seeking challenges and individual Jul 31, 2025 · This study examines the link between leader-member exchange (LMX) and teacher creativity, mediated by paradox mindset and individual ambidexterity. This is essential in creativity, often referred to as overcoming an impasse, as creative acts, particularly moments of inspiration or “a-ha” moments, deliver a feeling of joy, which in turn stimulates If you have any questions about how the data is being used, have any concerns about the data or have additional questions about the research and about a paradox mindset, please Contact Us. Paradox Mindset Inventory - About Us Ella Miron-Spektor Ella Miron-Spektor is Associate Professor of Organizational Behavior at INSEAD. ” Purpose: This article presents an overview of the constructive functions of embracing (instead of rejecting) contradictions (otherwise known as a paradox mindset or Janusian thinking). They also demonstrate that a paradox mindset—the extent to which one is accepting of and energized by tensions—can help individuals leverage them to improve in-role job performance and innovation. Individuals with a paradox mindset feel comfortable with the paradox and get energy from the existing tension. , Miron-Spektor et al. Sep 3, 2025 · Therefore, we recommend further investigating the conceptual and empirical distinctiveness of paradox mindset from self-efficacy (e. 41). However, we know little about the antecedents or evolution of paradox mindset itself: Can it be developed and if so, how? “If paradoxical thinking can be taught, we need to clarify what might be some of the best ways to do so” (Schad et al. The study surveyed 400 public school manag-ers from the Sep 1, 2025 · Drawing on social information processing theory and paradox theory, we developed and empirically tested a moderated mediation model examining the mediating role of cognitive ambivalence in the inhibitory effect of ambidextrous leadership on employee innovation, as well as the moderating influence of the paradox mindset. Instructions: Answer the following 10 questions honestly. Nov 12, 2020 · The research team suspected that the answer would depend on an employee’s abilities and attitudes, and so they first designed a questionnaire to measure the “paradox mindset”. Findings highlight LMX as a key driver of teacher creativity, emphasizing the importance of strong leader– teacher relationships in fostering a paradox mindset and ambidexterity to enhance creativity in schools. For example, embracing change may lead to burn-out, while embracing stability may lead to boredom. Smith and M. lerner. As our world becomes increasingly global, fast-paced and complex, we face mounting competing demands, goals and expectations. A paradox consists of two realities that exist at the same time – even though that seems impossible. It helps employees embrace tensions Aug 1, 2025 · Our findings showed that AI–employee collaboration can drive AI mastery goal and a paradox mindset. Aug 1, 2025 · 1. Apr 16, 2025 · Appoint a chief transformation officer: The firm had a chief transformation officer in the role in the year that the transformation started. Dec 10, 2024 · Employees who ranked on the low end of the “paradox mindset” scale—meaning they disliked contradictions, much less embraced them—struggled with constraints. This is consistent with our theorizing that multicultural paradox Dec 21, 2021 · In our research, we find that both/and thinking enables more creative, effective and sustainable solutions over time. 4. Building on Goal-Setting and Paradox Theory, this study aims to examine the role of perceived tensions and paradox mindset in the relationship between participation in budget goal setting and budgetary performance in hybrid organizations. , A. At the individual level, the definition of an employee’s paradox mindset is the extent to which a person can accept and feel excited and comfortable in the face of tension or conflicting things [13]. Do you want to learn more about paradoxes and a A paradox mindset indicates the extent to which individuals embrace and are energized by tensions. A serial multiple-mediator model was tested using survey data from 358 employees working in a research company and an education Sep 11, 2024 · Ein Paradox Mindset, eine paradoxe Denkweise, kann definiert werden als „das Ausmaß, in dem jemand Spannungen akzeptiert und durch sie energetisiert wird“ (Miron-Spektor et al. ABSTRACT This article explores the emotional aftermath of public managers’ decision making in contradictory situations involving conflicting values. Apr 4, 2025 · Research demonstrates that a paradox mindset is associated with optimism and persistence, particularly in the face of failures. dox climate would be defined as an organizational climate in which pa are embraced, where it is stimulated to work on to contradictory goals at the same time, and Oct 5, 2025 · Contradictions that cause stress are examples of the ‘paradox mindset’. The paradox mindset inventory We created the Paradox Mindset Inventory to assess this increasingly vital capability. 3 Smith und Lewis betonen, dass ein Paradox Mindset umfasst, Widersprüche zwischen gegensätzlichen Kräften anzuerkennen und zu erkennen, wie sie Jun 18, 2025 · The conversation underscores the tangible benefits of adopting paradox thinking – supported by research that indicates that leaders who embrace this mindset often achieve superior creative outcomes, experience higher levels of job satisfaction, and are even more likely to advance in their careers. While we do not address the potential for learning and developing a paradox mindset in our studies, other research suggests that experiences, coaching, and reframing aid development of alternative mindsets (L ̈uscher We also demonstrate that a paradox mindset - the extent to which one is accepting of and energized by tensions - can help individuals leverage them to improve in-role job performance and innovation. Feb 7, 2024 · A 9-item questionnaire from Miron-Spektor, Ingram [19] was used to measure paradox mindset; a sample item out of this scale is "when I consider conflicting perspectives, I gain a better understanding of an issue. 34). 94). The present study aims to make three contributions to understanding how employees’ paradox mindset influences their innovative performance. In addition, extant literature has determined ways to measure paradox mindset and has focused on the A paradox mindset pushes us to shift from an either-or mentality to a both-and mentality. This is what some experts call the ‘paradox mindset ’. Nov 3, 2023 · One mindset keeps small businesses from scaling more than any other (and it’s not what you think). This definition includes both cognitive and affective individual responses. It also documents a method of evaluating the propensity for embracing contradictions (i. For a leader, addressing and engaging those tensions in constructive ways may unlock greater benefits for the followers, teams and the organization at large. The adoption of a paradox mindset can help people leverage tensions and produce creative outputs Jun 27, 2025 · Paradox theory suggests that mere exposure to paradoxical statements or goals can foster creativity and innovation (Miron-Spektor, Erez, & Naveh, 2011). Adopting a "paradox mindset"—the ability to embrace and feel energized by inherent tensions—can be transformative for leaders. Additionally, this article highlights the positive impact of a paradox mindset on augmenting teams’ and institutions’ creativity and performance. Dec 21, 2021 · In our research, we find that both/and thinking enables more creative, effective and sustainable solutions over time. Improving employee self-rated creativity using paradoxical strengths regulation: a mediated path analysis between personality traits, paradox mindset, and employee self-creativity Nov 13, 2019 · A paradox mindset indicates the extent to which individuals embrace and are energized by tensions. " Nov 13, 2019 · A paradox mindset indicates the extent to which individuals embrace and are energized by tensions. (2018) did not include self-efficacy to assess discriminant validity of their mindset scale) and in the meantime including self-efficacy as a control variable to investigate the unique If you have any questions about how the data is being used, have any concerns about the data or have additional questions about the research and about a paradox mindset, please Contact Us. Jun 18, 2025 · The focus of paradox mindset studies has been primarily on the cognitive dimension despite the general agreement that paradoxes lead to affective reactions. . According to Paradox Theory, a trait can be either constructive or destructive depending upon other complimentary traits. By clicking below, you have consented to taking the survey, and to having this data potentially used in future research. First, from an agentic perspective, we draw on the tenets of social cognitive theory (Bandura, 2012) to theorize RBSE as the potential mediating path between a paradox mindset and innovative performance beyond the mediating role of thriving at work Nov 11, 2020 · Paradox Mindset Inventory - More Information Do you want to learn more about the development of the Paradox Mindset Inventory? Miron-Spektor, E. existent, I adapted the paradox mindset scale (Miron-Spektor et al. Keller, W. Dec 12, 2022 · The present study aims to make three contributions to understanding how employees’ paradox mindset influences their innovative performance. The construct demonstrated ” good internal reliability ( 0. Apr 9, 2025 · To expand on these teaching approaches, the frameworks sustainability and paradox mindsets and the polarity mapping and polarity systems tools are discussed. Rather than a single, high-level decision, you need to create nuanced decisions that define when to embrace either side. These Mindsets matter. 26). 12775/JPM. We considered constructs more frequently associated with Western thinking, including tolerance for ambiguity (Lorsch & Morse, 1974), need for closure (Webster & Kruglanski, 1994), integrative complexity (Tetlock et al Abstract The purpose of this paper is to empirically examine the effects of paradox mindset on work engagement, considering two employees’ proactive behaviors: seeking challenges and individual unlearning as mediators based on Job demands-resources model. Lewis (2018). Learning to appreciate contradictions is the paradox mindset. The adoption of a paradox mindset can help people leverage tensions and produce creative outputs. Examples include “I feel energized when I manage to address contradictory issues” and “I am comfortable dealing with conflicting demands at the same time. While we do not address the potential for learning and developing a paradox mindset in our studies, other research suggests that experiences, coaching, and reframing aid development of alternative mindsets (L ̈uscher Mar 16, 2017 · We also demonstrate that a paradox mindset—the extent to which one is accepting of and energized by tensions—can help individuals leverage them to improve in-role job performance and innovation. First, from an agentic perspective, we draw on the tenets of social cognitive theory (Bandura, 2012) to theorize RBSE as the potential mediating path between a paradox mindset and innovative performance beyond the mediating role of paradox mindset tend to value, accept and feel comfortable with tensions. What were the findings of the 1996 study of Aug 1, 2022 · Figures (2) Figures Explaining the dynamic balance between shared leadership and formal a: Paradox mindset-in-degree relationship higher/lower rank Figures - uploaded by Matthew Rubin Author content Jun 18, 2025 · The focus of paradox mindset studies has been primarily on the cognitive dimension despite the general agreement that paradoxes lead to affective reactions. If you embrace just one of those realities and ignore the other, it can cause problems. For example, when frankness is complemented by diplomacy, it takes the constructive form of being forthright and truthful. Managers are well advised to assess the extent to which an employee entertains a paradox mindset and adjust the type of leadership appropriate to the situation, and in particular adjust the intensity of their exchange relationship with these Jul 29, 2025 · Paradoxical leadership behavior and employee creative deviance: The role of paradox mindset and leader–member exchange. We argue that team members with a high multicultural paradox mindset are accepting of and energized by intercultural tensions, both emphasizing cultural differences and finding common ground. I call it “The Paradox of Scale. Our paradox mindset scale offers leaders and prac-titioners opportunities for assessing their own ap-proaches to tensions. In addition, extant literature has determined ways to measure paradox mindset and has focused on the Paradox Theory A paradox is a seemingly contradictory statement, which may nonetheless be true. We also found empirical evidence that both AI mastery goal and the paradox mindset can mediate the relationship between employee–AI collaboration and user engagement. We propose a multilevel model based on self-determination theory that examines the effects of a paradox mindset on individuals’ innovative work This study explores microfoundations of organizational paradox, focusing on how individuals' paradox mindset impacts job performance and innovation amidst competing tensions. 5 The correlation between our multicultural paradox mindset measure and the traditional paradox mindset scale was high (r=0. Aug 8, 2023 · Third, our study contributes to the emerging literature on paradox mindset by identifying PLB as a novel antecedent of employee paradox mindset. This research provides three contributions to the paradox mindset literature. A conceptual framework rooted in paradox theory is presented in Figure 1. Mediation analysis revealed indirect efects of LMX on creativity via paradox mindset and ambidexterity. Nov 1, 2019 · The paradox mindset scale (Miron-Spektor et al. Sep 16, 2025 · Based on our analysis, we propose a Multilevel Paradox Mindset (MLPM) framework, comprising paradox mindset practices at individual, team and organization levels and flows between the levels. 001 License CC BY-ND 4. For example, at the individual level, recent scale development aids in identifying organizational members who approach competing demands with a paradox mindset of accepting and being energized by tensions (Miron-Spektor, Ingram, Keller, Smith, & Lewis, 2018). Paradox theory sug-gests that mere exposure to paradoxical statements or goals can foster creativity and inno-vation (Miron-Spektor, Erez, & Naveh, 2011). 2020. While embracing these tensions leverages performance and innovation, experiencing these tensions may also lead to frustration and defensiveness, resulting in negative consequences. Using data from 1,406 Nigerian teachers in 146 sc Coping effectively with Covid-era problems, Miron-Spektor found that a “paradox mindset” — defined as the tendency to value, accept and feel comfortable with tensions — can foster creative thinking. criterion validity. , 2018, p. 05). We explored the mindset of our study participants, which helped us explain when tensions impede innovation and performance and when they enable growth and learning. 0 Mar 16, 2017 · We also demonstrate that a paradox mindset—the extent to which one is accepting of and energized by tensions—can help individuals leverage them to improve in-role job performance and innovation. Apr 13, 2021 · Embracing a 'Paradox Mindset' means shifting from thinking in terms of ‘either/or’ to ‘both/and’. However, without the complementary trait of diplomacy Dec 21, 2021 · This research integrates work–home conflict theories with the paradox-mindset framework, in order to suggest a new theoretical approach for understanding individual differences in addressing Paradox mindset In order to measure respondents’ propen-sity to “value, accept, and feel comfortable with tensions,” the 9-items Paradox Mindset scale by Miron-Spektor et al. Sep 20, 2022 · The findings indicate that management should be aware of the impact that having a paradox mindset has on the innovative work behaviour of employees. g. , 2018) consisted of nine items (α = 0. 79). Furthermore, the moderating effects of employees’ health awareness and paradox mindset on health-promoting and transactional leadership on employees’ performance and well employees with a higher paradox mindset were more scales, and validated discriminate, convergent, and satisfied with their job (b 5 . A leader with a paradox mindset successfully deals with contradictory yet interdependent demands with their paradoxical thinking. The Paradox Mindset Readiness Quiz Are You Ready to Master the Paradox Mindset? Discover your current relationship to contradiction, complexity, and inner balance. (2018) did not include self-efficacy to assess discriminant validity of their mindset scale) and in the meantime including self-efficacy as a control variable to investigate the unique Jun 20, 2025 · Drawing on the tenets of Paradox Theory, the present research attempts to fill this gap by pioneering a gender-comparative inquiry into two constructs, the experience of paradoxical tensions and paradox mindset, that respectively represent the experiential and cognitive aspects of paradox. This is consistent with our theorizing that multicultural paradox Oct 11, 2024 · Adopt a paradox mindset. Choose the option that best reflects your typical experience. udel. Rather than accepting the apparent trade offs between the different poles of the paradox we challenge them and seek to embrace them. We tested over 3000 individuals and leaders worldwide and found that those with a paradox mindset who experienced tensions and adopted both/and thinking to address these tensions were more creative, satisfied and effective in their jobs. The Sustainability Mindset Indicator (SMI ®) is presented as an assessment tool to evaluate impact and progress. (2018) was used. We validated the scale drawing on data from thousands of people from the US, England, China and Israel. S. , 2018, S. " Academy of Management Journal 61 (1): 26-45. , 2018) in such a way that the items now target the organization rather than the individual. Keywords: paradox, mindset, contradiction, resources, time pressure, performance, innovation Paradox has to be accepted, coped with and made sense of, in life, work, and in the community and among Dec 12, 2022 · In addition, this study advances our knowledge of the psychological mechanisms regarding how individuals with a paradox mindset respond to innovation paradox, making innovative things happen, which verifies that a paradox lens can bring new insights and creative benefits to organizational actors (Miron-Spektor and Erez, 2017; Miron-Spektor et Paradox mindset is thus an important antecedent for paradoxical cognition and the management of paradoxical tensions. Nov 1, 2022 · To this end, we introduce the concept of paradox mindsets to research on multicultural teams. A serial multiple-mediator model was tested using survey data from 358 employees working in a research company and an education organization in They developed and validated a paradox mindset scale. These individuals see ns develop a theoretical model that identifies conditions that exacerbate the experience of tensions May 1, 2017 · Our results highlight paradox mindset as a key to unlocking the potential of everyday tensions. 72). Journal of Business and Psychology, 39 (3), 697–713. Managers need to pay attention to provide valuable information concerning the changes associated with the DT strategy in order to gain support. An example item of the paradox mindset scale is “I am comfortable dealing with conflicting demands at the same time. I agree to participate. Theoretical model. Keywords: paradox, mindset, contradiction, resources, time pressure, performance, innovation Paradox has to be accepted, coped with and made sense of, in life, work, and in the community and among nations. Our results highlight paradox mindset as a key to unlocking the potential of everyday tensions. K. (2011) showed that paradox mindset could be primed in experimental studies, we have yet to know how paradox mindset may develop in an organizational context. While we do not address the potential for learning and developing a paradox mindset in our studies, other research suggests that experiences, coaching, and reframing aid development of alternative mindsets (L ̈uscher Mar 19, 2021 · The purpose of this paper is to empirically examine the effects of paradox mindset on work engagement, considering two employees’ proactive behaviors: seeking challenges and individual Dec 1, 2023 · A leader with a paradox mindset successfully deals with contradictory yet interdependent demands with their paradoxical thinking. e. "Microfoundations of organizational paradox: The problem is how we think about the problem. , 2016, p. Aug 1, 2023 · Although prior research suggests that a paradox mindset helps individuals navigate such tensions, we know little about how paradoxical leaders might engender such a mindset in their followers. Mar 19, 2021 · The purpose of this paper is to empirically examine the effects of paradox mindset on work engagement, considering two employees’ proactive behaviors: seeking challenges and individual unlearning as mediators based on Job demands-resources model. In our own research, we developed the Paradox Mindset Inventory (see paradox. edu). May 29, 2019 · However, Dr Keller’s research implemented a fully quantitative, quantifiable measure to ask people where they were on the scale of paradox mindset, and to what extent they experience tensions. wbbtt zugx xcm o482y mow ufzlcku sro fiul dfbzc4z eu4kv