Abilene Paradox is a classic training video...Currently in its 2nd Edition, it continues to sell well to those looking for training videos about teamwork, communication, leadership, and group dynamics.
The movie opens with 4 four folks sitting on the porch of their small Texas town. No one really wants to move a muscle. They'd rather sit and relax. But one person, probably fearing boredom in the others, suggests a 53-mile ride into Abilene for dinner. No one really wants to go, but all agree to go.
I have no problem with saying 'no,' but apparently that's not the case for some. People will often say 'yes' to things they don't want to do and/or even to things they disagree with because they think that's what the other person/people want from them.
So the Abilene Paradox is doing what you don't want to do -- because you think that's what others want you to do -- but others don't want to do it either -- so nobody is really happy.
Does this apply to the workplace? - It does! Think about how many things you go along with or do because you think that's what's expected of you as a member of the team. What are the businesses consequences of this acquiescence on your part? Are you being paid for passivity? to be a yes-man/woman?
