Famous German Poet Bertold Brecht says, ‘Because things are the way they are, things will not stay the way they are.’ Change is the only constant. From Jurassic era to modern times, from imperialism to democracy, from barter system to stock exchanges, it is the timeless element of change that has shaped up our present and that determines our future.
To remain in the comfort zone of status quo might lead to momentary contentment, but, in the process freezes ourselves into a rock and preclude the growth and agility that wind possesses. When the choice is ours, Why not be the wind and bring liveliness around?
In our daily lives, we face numerous situations that demand to adapt accordingly. There are instances which we can influence, while at times we need to be influenced. Organizations today face a momentous issue of Culture. At workplace, ‘It happens that way only’, ‘Nothing is going to change, what’s the use?’, ‘Why shouldn’t they think about it earlier?’. ‘If people at the top don’t care, why should I be hitting my head hard?’ are some of the common sayings or rather excuses to remain in that status quo.
The irony that we confront is that while everyone says the same, why not each of them makes an effort to bring about the change. After all, the sum of many makes a great one. ‘I am looking for the right opportunity’, ‘I am just a mere number in the organization chart’, ‘There is no progress out here’; such quotes bring a clear message of dissatisfaction rather promulgation of pessimistic viewpoints. It is high time that each one of us introspects, and analyzes what acts or efforts of ours have added value to the organization? Could we create that confidence into our seniors and subordinates and above all into the organization that makes us more eligible for bigger roles?
One vital aspect is the sense of belongingness that needs to be fostered all across starting from ourselves. A company is a mere legal entity, only the people strengthens or weakens it. Our success collectively leads to the growth of the company, and vice versa. Why can’t we assert that the organization belongs to us, and it is we who will assure its success? Each act of ours, each moment that we invest needs to be directed towards organizational development, and, thus our growth. Culture is fostered by the attitude, activities, and aspirations we exhibit.
It is need of the hour when the organization develops leadership culture i.e. working along with the people. Attention should be on “people issues”, understanding and realizing their needs and building their capabilities for organizational success. Jim Owens former chairman and CEO of Caterpillar, says, in any great company it’s not about a great individual leader, it’s about a leadership culture within the company. In our pursuit for excellence, such culture can be culminated by the appropriate blend of teamwork, discipline, time management, positive attitude, and motivation.
The trinity of responsibility, authority, and accountability not only lays the foundation for a great organization, but also brings about job satisfaction and empowerment of individuals. Information sharing down the line creates valued and esteemed subordinates. In reciprocation, feedback escalation up the line enables cognizance of ground realities to make informed, corrective and progressive decisions.
The bottom line lies in the optimistic & progressive redirection and reformation of our thoughts, deeds and hence, results. If we really yearn to see the change, the onus lies on our shoulders to bring the change, to be the change!
+Danish
