We are part of a much larger moment than simply the one we are living in right now. We are descendants of those that came before us. And we will become the ancestors of those yet to come in a long distant future.
Have you ever considered that?
What then, have we learned from those that came before us? Their struggles, failures, and successes should inform how we behave today, right? Whether it’s our personal journey, or our professional one, the past should be a powerhouse source of data that informs how we move forward.
But does it, really?
I offer today that it rarely informs what we do, particularly in the workplace. How many examples of failed leadership exist and yet the need for ‘leadership development’ and ‘coaching’ is stronger than ever?
Have we…have I…learned nothing so far? I can only imagine what our ancestors think of us. Are they not shaking their heads wondering why we continue to follow in the footsteps of leadership arrogance, considering people as ‘assets’ and ‘resources’ instead of unique individuals that with the proper support and encouragement could be transformative members of an incredible organization?
Heavy things to consider. Even heavier to think about how this rinse and repeat world of work can be shifted in the proper direction.
“Let us be the ancestors,
our descendants will thank”
- Winona Laduke
I hope that one day when we are all considered ancestors that our future descendants will look back and thank us for beginning to break the oft repeated cycle of not learning from history.
Perhaps it is finally time that radical new thinking about work begins to take hold, and a new foundation is put in place for those that will follow us?
What do you think?
Thanks for being here.
Jay
