Seek Out The Cynics as They Really Care

Some good advice from Chris about Cynefin version of social complexity:

  • Seek out the cynics as they really care.
  • Experiment in a “safe to fail” environment.
  • The only way to understand a complex environment is to act within it.

I think I am probably taking them out of context. But Chris mentioned social complexity, so I feel justified.

I think this is good advice for entrepreneurs. As you talk to potential customers, investors, what you really want to be listening to are the cynics. Listen carefully and try to understand why they are saying what they are saying. Did you fail to communicate your vision? Is there a pattern you can observe (in the cynicism) and learn from?