As an organization grows, most things change although a couple of foundational things do not. An aspirational Shared Purpose inspires hearts and minds, while Guiding Principles provide the compass, as the organization expands its reach.
Growth itself depends upon the integrated elements that make it possible; the teamwork of people, processes and systems all expand. And typically the sheer potential combinations and interactions cause them to become more complicated. When it comes to capabilities and systems, what got you here won’t take you there.
While the organization may grow and must adapt, its shared purpose remains clear, worthwhile and simple. Team Members know why they have come together and collaborate because they want to do so.
The shared purpose may expand as capabilities grow but fundamentally retains its shape. In fact, the shared purpose may increase in power by unleashing the Exponential Potential of those who share it. Healthy growth enhances shared purpose and never diminishes it.
John Spence, thought leader and trusted advisor to many leading organizations, describes it this way:
To build an inspired culture, you build it around your core purpose.
As a focused and purposeful organization grows, so does its impact and value to those it is designed to serve.
When shared purpose resonates, it attracts talent, clients and other like-minded individuals and organizations. It creates a “flywheel effect” that accelerates growth.
Something so powerful and so crucial as shared purpose must be guarded carefully. An organization can quickly lose its edge if it begins to stray from the path, so its leaders must keep shared purpose front and center.
Tempus Maximize!
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