“A contrarian isn’t one who always objects — that’s a conformist of a different sort. A contrarian reasons independently, from the ground up, and resists pressure to conform.” ~ Naval Ravikant
I’ve been focusing lately on developing a “Contrartian Mindset” and I think you should too. Over the next few weeks, I’ll be providing information and strategies on developing a contrarian mindset. Today: an overview.
What Is A Contrartian
A contrarian is someone who goes against prevailing opinions and trends. Being contrarian is about knowing when to go against the grain and when to go with the flow. “The key is to think independently, not just differently” (Shakir).
The contrarian mindset is about being comfortable with discomfort. It’s not about being different for the sake of being different, it’s about finding truth in places that others aren’t looking.
“The ‘right’ contrarian ideas are those that, while going against the grain, are based on insightful observations and sound reasoning” (Shakir)
A contrarian is a strategist — always thinking long-term. Competitive advantage lies in setting oneself up in the future (Jorge).
Why You Should Develop a Contrarian Mindset
A contrarian doesn’t take an opposing stand just for the sake of it…they do so because they see an opposing viewpoint that will lead to more favorable outcomes — a better future.
Contrarians are the the “instigators” of innovation. They’re not beholden to conventional wisdom. Moreover, today’s complex business world requires critical thinking. The ability to look up most everything on the internet, is counter-balanced by the fact that almost anyone can publish anything on the internet.
Having a contrarian mindset separates you from the rest of the herd. Whether you’re in the hunt for a new job, or looking to move up in your organization or in your career, you need to differentiate yourself as a person of value — one who could make a substantive contribution to the team, the organization.
How To Be A Contrarian
Being a contrarian means creating an endpoint and working backwards without knowing exactly how you will finish. Some of the tools contrarians use to bring others to their points of view include (D’Souza):
- Analogies, to create awareness and help others bridge the gap between their perceptions and the contrarian idea.
- Case studies to show how others respond to similar situations to diminish concerns about the contrarian idea, and
- Retention of parts of existing systems to create a familiar context before moving forward to address the contrarian concept.
Over the next few weeks I’ll explore more about the contrarian mindset and it’s role in helping you define your value. In the meantime, what are your thoughts?
Are you someone who can embrace the contrarian mindset?
Do you see value in it, or might it be too risky for you to take on?
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