One of the things that I’ve
spent a lot of time thinking about in recent months is culture and the
importance of people that create culture.
As I walk through different phases of my life, I find that’s it’s easier
to identify smart/capable people than it is to find people who can create a
productive, positive culture. This
thought process started while thinking about organizational changes in my work
life, but I decided to think through my other circles and decide if the same
principle applies to culture creators. I
thought through church, little league, professional organizations,
neighborhoods, etc., and the most valuable people are those that create a
positive culture. On the other hand,
those that standout as not awesome in each of those situations isn’t based on
IQ, education, max bench press or how well they dress, but their inability to
contribute to a positive and productive culture.
Now for the really fun part of this blog, how are you are
creating culture? Identify the number of
circles where you might participate or lead; think about work, hobbies, faith, professional
organizations, etc, and consider about your impact. Pat Riley once said, “Great teamwork is the
only way we create the breakthroughs that define our careers”. Are you a member of the team that raises the
level of play for everyone, or are you a member that only looks for your
opportunity to score? I would encourage
everyone to take 5 minutes and write down the opportunities you have to improve
you have to be a better Culture Creator and identify 2-3 people you can learn
from.
-Richard
