KWR: Knowledgeable Wisdom & Responsibility
One can always recognize the KWR because of their passion for knowledge and the validation of that knowledge. The KWR is a walking Wiki, the resident subject matter expert. But this MDNA is not just about knowledge; it is about the application of that knowledge for the sake of education and wisdom. The KWR specializes in intellectual capital. The best way to describe this MDNA gift is the word “doctrinal.” This is not meant in a religious sense. It is about how teachings, beliefs, theories, tenets and precepts combine into a system of knowledge to undergird everything we do. But the KWR must know that knowledge is. If this MDNA fits, you will also have an obligation to understand and practice holistic responsibility.
KWR: Examples
Some examples of popular KWRs, today and throughout history, are Dr. Phil, the celebrity talk-show and author; the famous martial artist and movie star Bruce Lee; another famous KWR athlete is NFL quarterback Peyton Manning; and finally pioneering scientists Albert Einstein and Stephen Hawking were KWRs. And just for fun, the character Walter White from the hit television series Breaking Bad, was written also as a KWR.
(Celebrity profiles are unofficial, unverified and for educational purposes only.)
KWR: Brand Culture
For companies that fit this Motivational Value System, the brand profile that becomes imprinted on the entire organization is called “Perfecting Precision.” The Perfecting Precision brand is known for creating the highest quality products and for providing services that require accuracy, expertise or validation. They are differentiated through their ability to practically apply intellectual capital for market potential.
The best in class of these brands exhibit the core competence of responsibility. This core competence is based upon taking responsibility for problems while helping others do the same. This includes social responsibility. There may be a complex problem the Perfecting Precision brand can tackle. Or this company provides information so that customers can solve their own problems.
Volvo is the classic example of this through the carmaker’s engineering and commitment to safety. While Hewlett Packard may be known for computers, the company actually built its business at first on precision measuring instrumentation. HP also is known for its “green” manufacturing policies and transparency in production.
Additional examples of the Perfecting Precision brand are Netflix, Dyson, Y Combinator, Harvard Business Review, New York Times, Rolls Royce, Mayo Clinic and Proctor & Gamble.
KWR: How to Live by Design and Change the World
Data and information are powerful tools. But in order for data to be useful it needs to be validated and managed. And for information to have value it needs to be applied with wisdom. That’s what you do. You turn data into a useful opportunity to make an impact. You use information as a proactive solution that helps people. This requires your intellect and creativity. You look at data and information from different angles and put it to good use.
You ask a lot of questions. You crave understanding. You aren’t afraid of documentation to manage information. You are willing to discuss—even argue—words and ideas. Changing the world needs this type of tenacity.
When you share details, you are careful and precise. This makes you a powerful teacher whether you formally pursue being an educator or not. This is why you are motivated to remind people of traditions of truth that provide a strong foundation. Historical accuracy is an asset because we all need to learn from our past.
You have to stand for something so that others won’t just fall for anything. That's why when someone makes a claim of truth, you are careful to slowly consider its validity. You are motivated to systematically organize information to open up possibilities for new ways to see and do things. You are a walking wiki in your cohesiveness and coherence. And in a world overloaded with information, this gift is incredibly needed.
Seeking education and furthering your credentials is not a bad thing. Just do it for the right reasons. Nobody likes a know-it-all. But they do appreciate someone of wisdom and sound judgment.
This is precisely why you need time for rational process. That's ok. You don't reject new theories and ideas off the bat, but you do like to slow things down and take a good hard look. This is so nobody jumps to conclusions or fall for false-positives. This might frustrate the more spontaneous and visionary people around you. But that's ok too. They need your sense of timing and precision. Take the time and space needed for this.
To change the world, you will need to be committed to leadership in both training leaders and being a leader yourself. Leaders will also need your quirky sense of humour when things become volatile. That's why people like being around you. You don't impose your opinion. You simply lay out the facts and help people make the best decision.
Just make sure you learn to listen as much as you share. Keep your eyes open. Put your head on a swivel to observe the world and the minute details others might not see. It is in these moments you will astutely observe the keys to make a real difference.
But to really change the world, you have to make sure you don't make responsibility, or lack thereof, an issue. If you avoid imposing responsibility on others, or avoid it yourself, you will miss your opportunities. Be prepared to confront what is wrong and win the intellectual battles to really inspire change.
Allow your knowledge and wisdom to help you and other take responsibility. The discipline of responsibility is where your design gets activated. Again, you are called to make a difference. Go for it!