Let’s get this out of the way: people on your team are not impractical. However, we all have biases, preferences, habits, blind spots, and a desire to keep the boss happy that might take us out of being practical.

Practicality can be defined as the ability to make decisions based on what is feasible and effective rather than purely on what is desirable. For a leader or manager, fostering practicality within a team can lead to better decision-making, efficient resource allocation, and, ultimately, tangible results. Here’s how you can help your team develop this essential skill.

1. Lead by Example

As a leader, your behavior sets the tone for your team. If you exhibit a balanced approach to problem-solving, considering both idealistic and realistic perspectives, your team will likely follow suit. Demonstrating that you value practical solutions over grandiose, unfeasible ideas will send a clear message to your team about what’s expected.

2. Provide Real-world Context

Whenever introducing a new project or initiative, provide a clear context. Share the limitations, constraints, and the bigger picture with your team. When they understand the “why” behind decisions, it becomes easier for them to align their efforts with what’s practical and achievable.

3. Encourage Solution-based Thinking

Instead of focusing on problems, redirect your team’s energy towards solutions. Encourage them to brainstorm multiple solutions for a single problem and then evaluate which one is the most practical. This not only boosts creativity but also ensures that the team thinks critically about the feasibility of their ideas.

4. Set Clear Goals and Priorities

Having clear goals in place ensures that everyone knows what they’re working towards. Once goals are established, help your team prioritize tasks. By doing so, they will learn to focus on activities that bring the most value and are practical to execute.

5. Offer Constructive Feedback

Feedback is essential for growth. When a team member proposes an impractical idea, don’t dismiss it outright. Instead, use it as a learning opportunity. Ask probing questions to make them think about the practical implications of their proposal. By consistently giving constructive feedback, you’ll guide your team towards more feasible solutions over time.

6. Check Your Ego

You have to ask yourself if your team is bringing you their honest solutions to problems or ones that they think you will like. If you don’t know, ask. If it turns out to be the latter, you have to let your team know they will be rewarded and not punished for bringing new ideas that might push you in some new directions.

7. Get Different Thinkers Together

Research shows that we hire people who are like us in some way, as they are a good fit with the culture. The problem is when we get too many people with similar backgrounds; it doesn’t produce as many good ideas. Diverse teams bring in a variety of perspectives, ensuring a more balanced, pragmatic approach to decision-making.

8. Recognize and Reward Practicality

Who gets raises and promotions? That’s a good way to tell what a company culture values. To increase practicality, make it a point to recognize and celebrate team members who display a knack for practical solutions. Whether it’s through verbal appreciation, awards, or other incentives, acknowledging their efforts can motivate others to adopt a similar approach.

9. Encourage Reflection

Before embarking on a task or project, ask your team to consider potential outcomes and implications. A simple question like, “What challenges might we face, and how can we practically overcome them?” can stimulate forward-thinking and proactive planning.

10. Introduce Tools and Resources

Equip your team with tools that promote practicality. This could be software that aids in project management, analytical tools that help in evaluating the feasibility of decisions, or resources that provide data and insights. The right tools can streamline processes and encourage a more grounded approach to tasks.

Incorporating practicality into a team’s DNA is not an overnight task. It requires consistent effort, guidance, and the right environment to foster this skill. As a leader or manager, your role is crucial in this transformation. By integrating the above strategies, not only will your team become more practical, but you’ll also see a marked improvement in performance, decision-making, and overall efficiency.