Disruptive Thinking

Disruption isn’t an obstacle to avoid; it’s the engine of transformative growth.

1. Embrace Challenges as Unique Opportunities

Disruptive thinking transforms adversity into possibility. T. D. Jakes encourages readers to view challenges not as barriers but as gateways to transformation. Instead of retreating to the comfort of familiar routines, we should confront obstacles head-on, recognizing the potential for growth in every disruption.

A perfect example is the scenario of individuals facing wealth inequality, where stagnant wages and limited opportunities can feel insurmountable. Disruptive thinking urges people to rethink their choices, like moving to a different environment or pursuing new opportunities. In these difficult times, this mindset acts as a beacon of hope.

Geoffrey Canada epitomizes this principle. Growing up in the South Bronx, he didn’t wait for circumstances to improve or for someone to rescue him. He used his own disruptive thinking to reform urban education, inspiring others to challenge traditional narratives about helplessness.

Examples

• A rural worker re-skilling to adapt to a changing economy.
• A single parent breaking free from financial constraints through creative budgeting.
• Geoffrey Canada transforming lives in underprivileged communities.

2. Redefine Success Through Teamwork

Success in disruption often comes through collaboration, even with unlikely partners. Many people feel they need to tackle challenges on their own, but Jakes argues that forming partnerships—especially unconventional ones—can yield extraordinary results.

In the Bible, Cyrus, a Persian king, fulfilled a divine prophecy by forming alliances that reshaped nations, even though he didn’t recognize God himself. This demonstrates that partnerships can drive positive outcomes, regardless of differing beliefs or backgrounds.

In the business world, this idea is equally relevant. For instance, hiring ex-offenders or collaborating with individuals from drastically different fields can bring fresh perspectives and create a strong foundation for growth. Effective disruption often thrives on diverse viewpoints and shared goals, requiring humility and mutual respect.

Examples

• Business ventures involving partnerships with outsiders.
• Hiring individuals with unconventional backgrounds to fuel innovation.
• Building inclusive teams that value unique differences.

3. Ego: The Invisible Roadblock

An inflated ego can stall progress, especially when navigating disruption. Jakes highlights how humility is essential when embracing disruption, as it enables people to acknowledge mistakes, seek guidance, and stay open to learning.

Elliot Aronson and Carol Tavris’s exploration of self-justification illustrates how humans naturally protect their egos by avoiding responsibility. This tendency can be harmful in disruptive situations, where growth requires admitting faults and stepping outside the comfort zone.

Recognizing the ego’s influence allows disruptors to focus on outcomes rather than personal pride. For example, innovative leaders who embrace criticism and adapt their strategies usually foster environments conducive to progress.

Examples

• Leaders taking responsibility for failed projects instead of blaming others.
• An artist reworking their craft after audience feedback.
• An entrepreneur admitting a flawed business model and pivoting to success.

4. Communication Fuels Disruption

Clear, honest communication is the secret to sustaining disruption. Miscommunication or unspoken assumptions can derail progress, whereas proactive discussions ensure everyone works toward the same goal.

In workplace settings, successfully integrating a new hire depends not only on their skills but also on how well expectations are communicated. As Jakes notes, misunderstandings can paralyze innovative efforts, emphasizing the need for clear guidance.

This principle applies in various contexts, from family dynamics to business meetings. Open communication helps mitigate confusion, encouraging collaboration and fostering an environment where disruption can thrive.

Examples

• A CEO clarifying expectations during organizational restructuring.
• A manager explaining project roles to prevent team confusion.
• A family addressing unspoken expectations during a major decision.

5. Unearth the Subtleties in Situations

Jakes urges us to examine the subtleties in relationships and environments to harness disruption effectively. Paying attention to nuances provides critical context and informs better choices.

Whether considering a mentor’s advice, navigating professional challenges, or seeking funding for a venture, understanding deeper dynamics can open doors previously unseen. For instance, evaluating people by actions and unique skill sets rather than surface-level impressions can yield powerful connections.

This awareness encourages a spirit of discernment. Subtle details often hold the key to unlocking new paths of disruption.

Examples

• A protégé interpreting a mentor’s guidance creatively.
• A leader noticing untapped potential in an overlooked employee.
• A parent understanding the reasons behind a child’s choices.

6. Discomfort Leads to Growth

Disruption demands stepping into unfamiliar territory. Taking risks, trying new tasks, and embracing the unknown are all part of the journey.

The Serenity Prayer beautifully captures this mindset: asking for the courage to change what can be altered and the wisdom to accept what cannot. Jakes emphasizes that enduring discomfort is essential for overcoming roadblocks and reaching one’s goals.

Being comfortable with discomfort is a powerful state of mind. Those who consistently push themselves beyond their limits experience exponential personal and professional growth.

Examples

• A professional taking a leap into a completely new career path.
• A student challenging deeply ingrained perspectives in academic discussions.
• A couple navigating and strengthening their relationship through honest dialogue.

7. Education Elevates Disruptive Thinking

Education, especially when applied to underserved populations, has the unique power to ignite disruption. Jakes’s work with programs like the Texas Offenders Reentry Initiative (TORI) demonstrates this beautifully.

Given the proper tools and opportunities, even those who feel disempowered can change their trajectory. For instance, companies that value education by retraining employees during job shifts exemplify how learning supports disruption.

Empowering others through education creates ripples of social and economic change, reshaping communities one person at a time.

Examples

• Programs teaching tech skills to unemployed workers.
• Schools integrating mentorship programs for at-risk youth.
• Corporations offering tuition support for employees’ education.

8. Relationships Reflect Disruption

Marriage and parenting embody disruption at a deeply personal level. Respect, trust, and empathy are vital as partners and parents navigate their roles.

For instance, listening to a partner’s ideas or delving into the motivations behind a child’s actions creates space for mutual growth. Disruption in families often reflects internal dynamics, calling for communication and compromise to achieve unity.

Long-term relationship success hinges on understanding and growing through the unexpected challenges life introduces.

Examples

• Partners working together on financial or career changes.
• Parents collaborating with children to solve behavioral issues.
• Families adapting to lifestyle upheavals like relocation or caregiving.

9. Everyone Deserves a Good Life

The ultimate truth in disruptive thinking is that everyone has an inherent right to a fulfilling life. Through intentional action, transformative change is possible.

Jakes reminds us that disruptions, while challenging, help individuals and communities clarify their values and priorities. Whether changing careers, ending toxic relationships, or fostering opportunities for others, people must actively pursue what’s meaningful to them.

True disruption transcends material abundance; it’s about aligning actions with purpose to build a life worth living.

Examples

• A teacher inspiring students to rethink societal limitations.
• A mentor guiding someone to leave an unfulfilling job.
• Community leaders creating initiatives for equal opportunities.

Takeaways

1. Reflect on areas of your life that feel stagnant and take one bold action to disrupt them.
2. Approach partnerships by seeking diverse perspectives and collaborating with others regardless of their background.
3. Embrace discomfort and treat it as an opportunity to grow rather than something to avoid.