Acknowledge Quote by Edward de Bono
“Unfortunately, our existing traditional thinking habits insist that you must attack something and show it to be bad before you can suggest a change. It is more difficult to acknowledge that something is excellent and then to ask for change because although it is excellent, it is not enough.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Six Thinking Hats, Edward de Bono, 1985
People tend to criticize before proposing improvements, making it harder to change something that’s already good because excellence feels insufficient.
In simple terms: Criticism precedes change; excellence feels lacking.
Key Takeaway
Recognize strengths before suggesting changes.
Themes
criticism
change
excellence
mindset
Mood
reflective
analytical
Type
advice
philosophical
When to use this quote
- team meetings
- product reviews
- policy updates
- personal growth
Key Concepts
cognitive bias
decision making
innovation
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you frame praise as a basis for improvement?
- What barriers prevent acknowledging excellence?
A Different Perspective
Excellent things may still need refinement, not just praise.
