Reluctance to accept others’ ideas
This phenomenon is called the “Not Invented Here” (NIH) syndrome. It’s a common psychological bias that affects individuals and organisations.
Reasons for NIH Syndrome:
- Ego and Pride: Attachment to one’s ideas and fear of acknowledging others’ superiority.
- Loss of Control: Feeling threatened by external ideas that may alter one’s plans or authority.
- Fear of Change: Resistance to new ideas that challenge existing norms or processes.
- Territorialism: Protecting one’s domain or expertise from external influence.
- Cognitive Dissonance: Difficulty reconciling external ideas with one’s preconceptions.
Consequences of NIH Syndrome: - Missed Opportunities
- Delayed Progress
- Stifled Innovation
- Poor Decision-Making
- Damaged Relationships
So try to separate ideas from the owner and evacuate ideas on merit! Not easy?
