Critical Review of Key Concepts/Theories

The reflective essay focuses on to critically review the different theories that have been studied along the period. Further, it would focus on evaluating the practical applications of the theoretical underpinnings while also in understanding personal strengths and weaknesses and thereby generate a plan for self development.

Johari Window

The concept of Johari Window was first introduced by Joseph Luft and his partner Harry Ingham during 1955. The same is reflected below.

(Apricot Training Management Ltd., 2013)

The above theory gains needed significance from the individual point-of-view in that it contributes in the development of self awareness, helps in improving communication with others, develops interpersonal relationships based on self understanding both from the views of self and others, helps in working in a team framework and also contributes in team development, enhances the level of inter and intra-group dynamics and also fosters group relationships  (West & Turner, 2010). Further, Johari Window as a model stresses on the development of soft skill sets like behavioral patterns, empathy, increasing co-operation and also helps in developing both along inter-group and interpersonal levels (Apricot Training Management Ltd., 2013).

Theory of Self Efficacy

The theory of self efficacy was introduced by Albert Bandura. He pointed to around four different sources of beliefs regarding self efficacy. The ‘Mastery Experiences’ indicate the use of potential effort for overcoming difficulties and thereby gaining needed mastery over a specific task or situation. In terms of ‘Vicarious Experiences’ self efficacy is developed through following role models such that it motivates individuals to exploit their capabilities for gaining mastery  (Barrett, 2011). It helps in triggering needed confidence in an individual. Evaluation of emotional states in an individual reflects that the incidence of depression tends to affect one’s capabilities and thereby affects the performances. Finally, the role of teachers and coaches are also indicated wherein persuasion generated by them actively helps an individual in putting their best for gaining success in their life and career (Schwarzer, 2014).

Decision Making Concepts

The decision making model ideally contributes in understanding the different types of decision-making patterns associated to diverse environments like simple, complex, complicated and also chaotic. In simpler environments the need for development of communication channels, letting go of assumptions and also in following set of good practices are highlighted. In complicated environments the need for involving both internal and external stakeholder groups and also the incorporation of tools for encouraging people do out-of-the-box thinking is emphasized (Saha, 2013). Similarly, in cases of complex environments, the need for different approaches is stressed for development of interactions between stakeholders for generation of new patterns. It also requires the development of needed patience. Finally, in terms of operating in a chaotic setting it is recommended to understand and implement the best method that works rather than focusing on gaining effective answers. It also requires the undertaking of instantaneous action for setting of order and also in generating clarity in communication practices (Sicina, 2017).

Johari Window

Game Theory and Right Game

The aspect of Game Theory gains needed significance in that it helps in both understanding and also developing strategic interactions in a setting involving two or more people. It helps an individual in understanding and also evaluating the different types of strategic choices available in the hands of others and the type of impact, positive or negative that may come out as consequences of employing such choices. The application of the game theory can thus be effectively made in understanding and also in evaluating the decision that ought to be undertaken by individuals in diverse situations (Knoop, 2017).

Critical Thinking Framework

The critical thinking framework requires an individual to focus on the aspect of clarity while taking needed decisions. Focusing on the dimension of clarity is taken to help in arriving conclusions in a faster fashion and thereby contributes in taking decisions in a concerted and more accurate fashion. The critical thinking framework is identified as under.

(Kallet & Kallet, 2014)

The parameter of clarity reflects on generating clear directions and also in developing clarity of concepts. Clarity of concepts and directions ideally contribute in rendering effective solutions identified as conclusions. Finally, based on the different types of solutions/conclusions the decision is required to be undertaken to identify an effective solution. Herein, the chain of clarity to decision making is encompassed by diverse critical thinking based tools and other techniques that contributes in the generation of effective decisions, development of problem-solving abilities and also in rendering innovative results (Kallet & Kallet, 2014).

Critical Thinking Tools

Three different critical thinking tools contribute in the generation of creative insights and solutions than merely focusing on drawing potential conclusions and taking decisions thereof. The three different critical thinking techniques identified are impossible and abductive thinking and finally thinking outside-the-box.

 (Kallet & Kallet, 2014)

Herein, impossible and abductive thinking contribute in moving beyond the regular boundaries of thinking and thereby in generating effective and innovative solutions. Abductive thinking focuses on generating a mix of both experienced mind and also creative and fresh mindset for bringing out effective solutions laden with needed potentials. Impossible thinking focuses on moving beyond traditional and pre-conceived solutions to uncharted territories. The out-of-the-box thinking is considered the most innovative thinking technique for its goal directedness approach. It thereby requires the development of a structured thinking approach meant for achieving specific goals (Walton, 2014). Further, the out-of-the-box approach to thinking encourages the individuals to potentially brainstorm and encounter different types of ideas that tend to emerge along the path. Finally, it also encourages the individuals to think in a wilder and extended fashion not sticking to regional and geographical boundaries and stereotypic processes  (Kallet & Kallet, 2014).

Theory of Self Efficacy

Deductive versus Inductive Reasoning/Arguments

In case of deductive reasoning, the individual carrying out the reasoning or argument based on first identifying a general statement and thereby in identifying different types of alternatives or possibilities for arriving at effective conclusions. Deductive approach is undertaken for testing the different hypotheses and is thereby scientific in nature. On contrary to the narrowing approach, inductive reasoning focuses on arriving at general conclusions from observed data. Specific observations are tallied with concepts and understandings to arrive at a newer concept. Thus, where deductive reasoning is specific and rationalistic in nature inductive reasoning is generalist in approach (Donovan, 2014).

Concept of Triangular Thinking

The triangulated thinking and decision making approach focuses on amalgamating the data gained based on observations and interviews with that gained based on the conducting of survey activity. It thus contributes in the joint incorporation of both qualitative and quantitative data sets to produce quality and enriched inferences. The triangular approach thus contributes in carrying out effective evaluation of an event or situation and thereby in generating in-depth inferences based on conducting a holistic study of interview and survey data sets. Triangulated approach of thinking/decision making also focuses on gaining inferences from an external angle like consumers along with that gained from colleagues and from personal viewpoints. It not only helps in empowering customers in participating in decision making but also helps in gaining a holistic outlook (Lepore & Ludwig, 2013).

Impact of the Johari Window

The application of the Johari Window reflects that I have the potential in working in a flexible fashion, empathizing with subordinates and colleagues and fulfill commitments both at workplace and also at my personal level. However, I did not have knowledge regarding my effective decision making potential, power of observation and ability to effectively blend with both known and unknown people. I was also aware of my growing inner potentials and competencies that provide me with needed self confidence in handling numerous tasks.

Impact of Self Efficacy Theory

The impact of the self efficacy theory on my career and personality development reflects that of late my level of self awareness has increased which in turn helps in effective accomplishment of my personal and career oriented objectives in a focused fashion. Further, meeting with industry professionals in workshops and seminars helped me in boosting my personal confidence regarding communication, grooming and other soft skills. My tutors also encouraged me in taking part in teams which helped me to work in a team environment and develop interpersonal communication skills. Further, during internship and training periods I learnt to manage workplace stress which helped me to battle periods of self procrastination.

Decision Making Concepts

Impact of the Decision Making Concept

In terms of best practices, I need to give up my sense of complacency and focus on developing communication channels both within the group and the department for effective reporting. Further, it is required that I remain open and flexible to new ideas emerging in the marketplace. I also felt a need for not drawing easy conclusions but rather in evaluating and analyzing the situation and thereby make an effective decision. In complex situations I understood that I need to act patiently to let new patterns and solutions emerge out on their own. In chaotic circumstances, I understood the precise need for taking care of unstable environments and shifting them to complex category.

Impact of Game Theory

The application of the game theory indicates that while working in a group framework or in large organization I need to continually equip myself with potent information that would help in understanding and also in evaluating the moves that can be taken by my colleagues to excel at the workplace. In terms of equipping with emerging information I would help in increasing my competencies to gain career growth.

Impact of the Critical Thinking Framework

I focus on communicating the team and departmental objectives to the group members with also defined goals such that the same can help them to formulate effective solutions and strategies. They then focus on designing specific action plans in a collaborative fashion to meet destined goals.

Impact of Critical Thinking Tools

In terms of working as a department manager in a fashion retail outlet, I encourage my organizational members to focus on carrying out-of-the-box thinking regarding generation of new visual merchandising solutions for attracting potential footfalls.

Impact of Deductive Reasoning

I generally focus on carrying out surveys and thereby in drawing and analyzing quantitative inferences through the use of statistical and diagrammatic tools for evaluating the research hypotheses. This helps me in gaining refined and specific inferences.

Impact of the use of Triangular Thinking

In terms of carrying out research on changing buying patterns of customers at the fashion retail outlet I focused on carrying out observational study of customer visits, interview and research activity such that the triangulated approach helped in evaluating both qualitative and quantitative data in arriving at effective inferences regarding offers and promotional techniques to be incorporated.

My participation in the course activity has helped me to understand that I bear needed strengths in the dimension of carrying out effective interpersonal relationships with the group members. I also can effectively socialize with the organizational members and empathize on their needs. I also focus on taking decisions in a collaborative fashion to enhance team accountability in meeting stated objectives. However, I understood that I would require focusing on developing my soft skills potential through enrolling myself in information technology classes for getting equipped to work in a digital environment. I also need to be an avid listener and continually focus on developing my knowledge and potentials.

Conclusion:

In terms of getting trained in the information technology domain and also through continually developing my knowledge and competencies in the managerial and communication aspects I would be able to hone up my decision making ability. Working in a computerized environment with knowledge of soft skills I would be able to carry out better analysis and thereby be able to disseminate the information to potential stakeholders for formulating needed strategies and action plans. The same would help in developing our strategic position as a team and thereby in generating better payoffs in the long run.

References:

Apricot Training Management Ltd. (2013, November 10). Understanding the Johari Window model. Retrieved September 2, 2018, from Self Awareness: https://www.selfawareness.org.uk/news/understanding-the-johari-window-model

Barrett, R. (2011). The New Leadership Paradigm. United States : Lulu.com.

Donovan, J. (2014). How to Deliver a TED Talk: Secrets of the World’s Most Inspiring Presentations, Revised and Expanded New Edition, with a Foreword by Richard St. John and an Afterword by Simon Sinek. United Kingdom : McGraw Hill Professional.

Kallet, M. (2014). Think Smarter: Critical Thinking to Improve Problem-Solving and Decision-Making Skills. United Kingdom : John Wiley and Sons.

Kallet, M., & Kallet, M. (2014). Think Smarter: Critical Thinking to Improve Problem-Solving and Decision-Making Skills. United Kingdom : John Wiley and Sons .

Knoop, T. A. (2017). The Traveling Economist: Using Economics to Think About What Makes Us All So Different and the Same. United Kingdom : ABC CLIO.

Lepore, E., & Ludwig, K. (2013). A Companion to Donald Davidson. United Kingdom: John Wiley and Sons.

Saha, P. (2013). A Systemic Perspective to Managing Complexity with Enterprise Architecture. United Kingdom : IGI Global.

Schwarzer, R. (2014). Self-Efficacy: Thought Control Of Action. United Kingdom : Taylor and Francis.

Sicina, R. V. (2017). Learn from Failure: The Key to Successful Decision Making. United Kingdom : AuthourHouse.

Walton, D. (2014). Abductive Reasoning. Alabama: University of Alabama Press.

West, R., & Turner, L. (2010). Understanding Interpersonal Communication: Making Choices in Changing Times, Enhanced Edition. United States : Cengage Learning.