Three Leadership Lenses for Coherence
A set of perception patterns within Circle3™ for noticing what is shaping a situation in complex systems by Michael Basil
Three Leadership Lenses™ help you pause, notice what is shaping a situation, and see more clearly under complex conditions. Each works on its own. Together, they build coherence in perception—supporting clearer interpretation, attentional clarity, and more intentional response.
Circle3™ is not a linear process or sequence. Start where you are. Choose the lens that fits what you are seeing right now.
Each lens is engaged through reflection over time.
Sense Making Reflection
When people experience the same situation differently
Notice how people are interpreting what is happening.
Clear — apply known rules and best practices.
Complicated — rely on analysis and expertise.
Complex — probe, adapt, and learn as they go.
Chaotic — act first to stabilize disruption.
Confused — no shared frame is holding the situation.
Energy Awareness Reflection
When conversations feel uneven or difficult to read
Notice how people consistently show up across interactions.
Drivers push for movement.
Organizers try to stabilize.
Collaborators try to reconnect.
Visionaries step back and reframe.
Paradigm Awareness Reflection
When change reveals what people are protecting or creating
Notice the paradigm from which people are responding.
Survival protects what is.
Neutrality creates space to be with what is.
Generative possibility creates what could be.