I have a theory: The most dangerous place for a company is somewhere between obviously healthy and obviously dysfunctional. "But isn't that most companies?" you might ask. An extension of the theory (completely unsupported): No, it isn't most companies
Well articulated, John. Love how well you have tried the pieces.
Another antipattern is to push for quick wins under the argument that quick wins build momentum. But doing so while ignoring the bottleneck or the reverse salient means that sooner than later we run up against a failure point. A better behavior is to make the bottleneck explicit and make it okay to give up should it not be possible to remove it. Otherwise an illusion of progress can last quarters and years
This article about "Doing OK" was so incisive and insightful that I forwarded it to 2 co-workers, including my boss. As a new employee, it is a risky move, due to the implied criticism. But I think the dangers are real. To mix visual metaphors, sitting atop the S-curve seems comfortable, but it takes work to move beyond that plateau to greater heights. The alternative is downhill from there.
This post effectively captures many nuances and details. I have heard about and witnessed the anti-patterns discussed in this post first-hand. Stepping up and leading during difficult times to inspire a team to make positive moves is the definition of leadership. Generally, you discover your own character or observe others' during challenging situations. Good stuff, keep writing!
Well articulated, John. Love how well you have tried the pieces.
Another antipattern is to push for quick wins under the argument that quick wins build momentum. But doing so while ignoring the bottleneck or the reverse salient means that sooner than later we run up against a failure point. A better behavior is to make the bottleneck explicit and make it okay to give up should it not be possible to remove it. Otherwise an illusion of progress can last quarters and years
What about highly productive people who are reluctant to adjust to the new situation?
This article about "Doing OK" was so incisive and insightful that I forwarded it to 2 co-workers, including my boss. As a new employee, it is a risky move, due to the implied criticism. But I think the dangers are real. To mix visual metaphors, sitting atop the S-curve seems comfortable, but it takes work to move beyond that plateau to greater heights. The alternative is downhill from there.
Love this post and love the boiled frog reference. I haven't heard that one before but I can't way to bring it into my next stand up.
This post effectively captures many nuances and details. I have heard about and witnessed the anti-patterns discussed in this post first-hand. Stepping up and leading during difficult times to inspire a team to make positive moves is the definition of leadership. Generally, you discover your own character or observe others' during challenging situations. Good stuff, keep writing!