I'm on the last legs of a series of workshops in Asia that have taken me to China, Malaysia, Singapore, and India over a relatively brief period of time. All of these countries are doing relatively well as barriers of fear, pride, and beaurocracy are being overcome, managed, or relaxed. Yet, they'd do even better if those barriers could be eradicated.
Fear
Fear is crippling. I know I should do something. But I won't because I'm worried about repercussions – either if I do it well or if I do it poorly. Instead, I just won't do it at all and stay safe. Can you spell inertia?
Pride
Pride is polluting. I know I should do something. But I won't because it would be a loss of face. I must be perceived as better than others – even if taking a step back is the best way forward.
Beaurocracy
Beaurocracy is enervating. I know I should do something. But I won't because it's just too hard. Far easier to play within the system and let things work at their own pace.
Overcome – manage – relax
Make sure you're rooting out these issues in your own organizations and team.
Make sure your people operate without fear – that they are encouraged to try new things.
Treat people with dignity at all teims – so they don't have to protect their pride.
Take a scythe to any and all beaurocratic practices that get in the way of progress. The back office should support, not hinder.
John Hall
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