Theory U
An introduction
By Erica Liang
Aug 11, 2007
8th Pinnacle Train-the-trainer IV Singapore
Based on concepts and writings by Otto Scharmer
Stockshots from Getty & istockphotos

What is it?
Learning, Leadership, Innovation,
Transformational Change

True change can
only take place with
the transformation
of the human heart.

Dive deep.

Why is theory U important?

21st century chaos and complexity.

The reactive mindset that
has governed the last two
centuries is ill-equipped to
eradicate systemic root
cause for transformational
change .

Problems can’t be
solved by the same
level of consciousness
that created them.
Albert Einstein

“The success of an
intervention depends
on the interior
condition of the
intervenor.”
Bill O’Brien
Ex-CEO, Hanover Insurance

Core principles
For individuals and organisations

Feel like stepping on the accelerator?

1. Fight the cult of speed.

Those who win are the ones who slow down time.
Werner Erhard
successful entrepreneur turned pro race car driver

2. Embrace other POVs, opening
heart and mind.

Been here?

What about here?

3. Practice Presencing
= Presence + Sensing
(heightened attention allowing (see deeply and collectively allowing
groups and individuals to shift inner future possibilities to emerge)
place from which they function)

Eye of the storm is calm. Yet formation of an eye is
almost always an indicator of increasing strength.

One movement, five processes

Invite people into your kitchen to bake the cake
together. Suspend judgment.

Strip down so new possibility can emerge

Experiment. Integrate. Improvise.

Listen and perform beyond the self.

Core competencies

In a nutshell, anything above
U is superficial.

In summary.

Was U
Control Improvise
Talk Connect
Learn from the past Learn from the future
IQ IQ+EQ+SQ
Reflect Act

Action U
End of Analysis Paralysis.