Adaptive Space and Yin/Yang
Complexity and Dao Series #8
Foundational Concepts
Adaptive Space and Complexity Leadership Theory
The term “adaptive space” originates from complexity leadership theory/CLT, the theoretical framework I dedicated my doctoral studies to. It serves as a platform for practicing enabling leadership, which integrates entrepreneurial and operational leadership, fostering change and emergence. Within the CLT framing, leadership is about influencing change. This definition further highlights the importance of adaptive spaces, the intentional space to influence change.
Dao gives birth to one, one gives birth to two, two gives birth to three, and three gives birth to everything.
— Dao De Jing
The three types of leadership in the CLT framework align perfectly with the Yin/Yang principle in Daoism. As the Daoist quote goes, “Dao gives birth to one, one gives birth to two, two gives birth to three, and three gives birth to everything.” In the language of organizations, an…
