Whole Brain Practitioner Spotlight
Toni Zimmerman
Organisational Development Practitioner and Coach
At CreateConsulting, we believe in igniting best thinking for a better world.
We are delighted to recognise the incredible contributions of Toni Zimmermann. Her expertise in applying Whole Brain® Thinking and the HBDI® empowers Pep’s Dynamos and their teams to unlock their collective brilliance. We chatted to Toni about her journey.
What inspired your journey into Whole Brain® Thinking?
Twenty years ago, when I joined the PEP Training Team, I was first introduced to the HBDI® and Whole Brain® Thinking concepts. At the time, I was still working in the Personal Assistant/Admin field. It was paper-based back then, and I still have those original reports!
Gaining insight into my thinking preferences stayed with me from that moment onward, eventually leading me to become a certified Whole Brain® Practitioner.
What has been the impact of Whole Brain® Thinking in your work and life?
It sparked my curiosity about the brain, which later led me to study Psychology - something I only pursued later in life, graduating at age 45.
My career changed completely, from Admin to Training Facilitator to OD Practitioner, working in Leadership and Team Development. My perspective on connection and EQ has evolved significantly, even though HBDI® isn’t strictly an EQ tool.
I’ve also learned something beautiful: my best friend is my opposite in thinking preferences, and yet we fulfil and complement each other perfectly,
What's the one magic insight or practical tip you keep coming back to?
That you can be competent in a quadrant that isn’t your natural preference and still stay true to your dominant style. This has two important parts:
a) People often wonder, “If I adapt, will I lose who I am?” The answer is no, you can grow and stretch without losing yourself.
b) I’m currently fascinated by the idea of "exercising" quadrants, and the broader impact of physical exercise on the brain. I love knowing that I can train my brain just like I train my body.