-11 2. KEY PRINCIPLES OF SYSTEMIC THINKING AS APPLIED TO PREVENTIVE MONITORING The systemic approach can be operationalized in 10 principles. The following sections present 1. the meaning of the respective principle, 2. its application in preventive human rights monitoring and 3. concrete questions for monitors who want to apply it. These principles must be seen as interlinked, interdependent and mutually reinforcing. 2.1. Begin with the end in mind Meaning of the principle – the basic idea “Begin with the end in mind” is a crucial principle for any change thinking10 and change processes. It argues for a structured and conscious way of using images of the future for promoting effective change. These images “guide and inspire present-day actions”.11 The clearer the image of the desired change, the better it is. Metaphorically speaking: It is easier to reach a place if you know what the place looks like. This principle brings purpose, orientation and clarity, thus boosting effectiveness, efficiency and energy. Application of the principle in preventive monitoring While the principle may seem obvious, our experience has shown that it is all too often not applied in practice. Many interventions lack sufficiently clear and explicit goals and/or indicators for their achievement, and, if they exist, these are often not used systematically. “Begin with the end in mind” is helpful in urging monitors to keep the overall goal of preventive monitoring constantly in mind. It is important 10. Coined by Stephen Covey, 7 Habits of Highly Effective People (2nd ed., Simon&Schuster 2004). 11. Diana Whitney and Amanda Trosten-Bloom, The Power of Appreciative Inquiry. A Practical Guide to Positive Change (Berret-Koehler Publishers 2010) 60 [hereinafter: Whitney/Trosten-Bloom]. Systemic Thinking in Preventive Human Rights Monitoring