There Are No Rules

"The future of work will not include the archaic rules we cling to today."
- Me

Protocol
How many times do you consider protocol before making a decision? When you think about what is "acceptable" in your workplace do your decisions change? Why?

Is there an established set of rules, policies or procedures that everyone must follow? Probably yes for some things, but I'm guessing not for how to raise issues, take risks, or God-forbid, identify break-through thinking.

So then, what is so powerful about protocol?

Corporate Culture
The answer I most often hear has to do with something called corporate culture. What surprises me most about this response is the inherent assumption that an organization has one homogenous culture. That is impossible.

Corporate cultures are actually made up of the dozens, or hundreds, or thousands of micro-cultures that exist at the team or department level. 

That is where the core values and mission of the organization must be effectively communicated and exemplified by leadership if a "corporate culture" is going to materialize at some higher level.

The Future of Rules
The only way I've been able to make real progress over the years was when I simply disregarded the norms, protocol, and generally risk-averse ineffectiveness of "modern" leadership.

The leaders of tomorrow are openly wondering why things move so slowly; why their big ideas do not get the obvious support they deserve; and how they can continue to push themselves to be more than they ever imagined.

How About You
I'm thrilled about the future of work. Candidly, I'm going to continue to lead as if the future is now.

Rules be damned.

I'd love to hear from you.

No Excuses.

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Give Me Something To Break

Sometimes the world can feel like it's closing in all around us. We work hard, implement contemporary strategies, and even call out those who are ignoring their leadership responsibilities.

And the more sacred things we break...the greater the noise level directed at us.

Face the Challenge

I've seen the same behavior happen for years. You've heard the comments...the excuses...which really only serve as a public validation of failed leadership.

"We are so special, we just need to keep doing things the way we always have"

"I don't understand why we're changing"

"I don't believe the world is so different...I know what works best"

It's painful to hear, I know.

Which Archetype Do You Work In

I find it fascinating that for all of the leadership posturing to protect one's job, attempt to demonstrate executive presence, or avoid looking out of touch, so many bright minds can struggle to actually lead effectively. Everything is different now.

Seriously. It's 2015. This terrific piece from Harvard Business Review illustrates how the world of effective leadership has done a complete 180 degree turn over the last five years. Were you paying attention?

How About You

When was the last time you broke some sacred glass in your organization? Is it better to allow things to drift and die; or, do the circumstances in your world require bold leadership? There are so few bold leaders who actually know what they're doing. Maybe it's time that you proved you are one of the few.

I'd love to hear from you.

No Excuses.



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