Imitation is often seen as a safe and reliable strategy. We look to others for guidance and replicate their actions in the hope of achieving similar results. However, this can lead to a lack of innovation and a stagnant mindset. Instead, we should embrace exploration. By constantly challenging our assumptions and seeking new ways of doing things, we open ourselves up to new possibilities and potential breakthroughs. This is similar to the scientific method, where hypotheses are continuously refined based on experimental findings. By replacing imitation with exploration, we can foster a culture of creativity and innovation within our organizations.

Imitation is often seen as a safe and reliable strategy. We look to others for guidance and replicate their actions in the hope of achieving similar results. However, this can lead to a lack of innovation and a stagnant mindset. Instead, we should embrace exploration. By constantly challenging our assumptions and seeking new ways of doing things, we open ourselves up to new possibilities and potential breakthroughs. This is similar to the scientific method, where hypotheses are continuously refined based on experimental findings. By replacing imitation with exploration, we can foster a culture of creativity and innovation within our organizations.

Embrace failure as a learning opportunity. In the scientific method, experiments are not designed to succeed. They are designed to explore a question and increase knowledge. Similarly, in life, every failure can be seen as a learning opportunity. By adopting a growth mindset, where uncertainty is seen as a positive sign of learning and growth, we can overcome the fear of failure and embrace it as a stepping stone towards success. Failure should not be seen as a setback, but rather as a valuable lesson that brings us closer to our goals. By focusing on progress over success, we can continuously improve and iterate upon our ideas and strategies.

Seek feedback and iterate. In the scientific method, experiments are performed and the results are measured. Based on these findings, hypotheses are refined and experiments are repeated. This iterative process allows for continuous improvement and the acquisition of new knowledge. Similarly, in our own lives and organizations, seeking feedback from others and iterating upon our ideas is crucial for growth and success. By engaging with customers, clients, or colleagues, we can gain valuable insights and perspectives that will help us refine our ideas and strategies. This feedback loop allows for constant improvement and ensures that we are always moving forward.

In conclusion, both "The IKEA Effect" and "Fail like a scientist" highlight the importance of embracing failure and continuously challenging our assumptions. The IKEA effect reminds us to acknowledge our unconscious bias and be aware of the risks it poses to organizations. By recognizing the value we place on our own ideas, we can avoid sunk cost effects and "not invented here" syndrome. "Fail like a scientist" encourages us to adopt a growth mindset and view failure as a learning opportunity. By embracing the experimental nature of life and continuously iterating upon our ideas, we can foster innovation and achieve success. To apply these principles, here are three actionable pieces of advice:

• 1. Embrace exploration: Instead of blindly imitating others, seek out new ways of doing things. Challenge your assumptions and constantly look for opportunities to innovate.

• 2. Embrace failure: Shift your mindset and view failure as a learning opportunity. Embrace the experimental nature of life and focus on progress over success.

• 3. Seek feedback and iterate: Engage with others and seek their perspectives. Use this feedback to continuously improve and refine your ideas and strategies.

By incorporating these principles into our lives and organizations, we can overcome cognitive biases, foster innovation, and achieve success. So, let's embrace failure, challenge our assumptions, and continuously iterate to unlock our full potential.