Alignment

Specialization

One aircraft (photo above) specializes in high-speed military engagements, while the other is ideal for general aviation flying and landing on short runways. One costs tens of millions, while the other can cost less than $100,000 on the secondary market. Understanding our needs and intended impact might allow us to assemble the best resources. If we are defending a territory, a 5th-generation fighter might be required. A Cessna may be more practical if we perform low-speed, low-altitude search and rescue support.

How might we focus on resources that best suit our needs rather than purchasing top-of-the-line variants? For example, maintaining a donor database on a basic (but secure) platform might save thousands of dollars in subscription fees and allow us to navigate just as effectively as the premium platform. Authentically doing our work with practical tools does not always require the latest version.

Common Language

An aviator might use the following terms during a flight: departure, crosswind, entry, downwind, base, and final. It is vital that other aviators and control tower operators understand these terms. This allows for a shared language and expectations.

What is your enterprise’s common language? How do you orient new members of the community to the terms? What value do they add to your cause? When (if ever) do they fail?

Shouting at Yoga Students

A yoga instructor who shouts at their class might be missing the intention of yoga. A Board Chair who chastizes other board members for not twisting enough elbows to secure more donations from friends and business associates might not have a sustainable approach. A treasurer who reports that the organization’s tax returns have been filed but does not wish to share a copy for review may not be amplifying leading practices.

We might be doing the work that matters, but using the wrong communication methods (or volume) might cause more obstacles than benefits.

Care Committee

My father served on the vestry of an Episcopal church. He was commuting to the city for work and knew he had limited time outside of weekends to serve on the church committees so he joined the Cemetary Committee. Much to his surprise, he received frequent calls (landline days) regarding landscaping or other issues around the graves. My Dad’s perception was that general upkeep was the goal. To the relatives of the deceased, there was much to be done, most importantly attention to the details that honor the legacy of their loved one. My father’s initial view was the committee was a passive assignment. To the family members, it was an active site to observe memories.

How might we align our intentions with the intentions of those that we serve?

Refresh
Bogus Basin Ski Area- Proposed new lift dotted line. The existing lift represented as solid line

When rebuilding a ski lift, placing the lift towers in the same locations as the original version may not be necessary. Reconstruction is a chance to reimagine how the ski lift functions and even alter the impact of the ski lift. The first ski lift was constructed in the low point (valley) of pioneering ski runs. The thinking was skiers would gravitate to the ridges to make their turns. Skiers, acted on by gravity, naturally returned to the canyon portion of the ski run and inevitably dodged lift towers that occupied the preferred fall line. So, the ski lift was reconstructed on the ridge lines, reversing the original paradigm.

How might we utilize reconstruction to update our alignment? What if we are expanding the size of the board? Do we seek weak ties to broaden representation on the board, or do we double down on the skill sets and attributes currently serving the board? What if a key partnership changes? Do we find the next best organization to fill the vacuum, or do we review the program and assess future needs before moving forward? How do we remain curious, even when we have invested in a functional platform?

How Stated Values Impact Authenticity

Reading United States’ mottos is a confluence of opinions and a group’s projection of themselves. Some of the mottos are aligned with our thoughts about a region, and others are further from our perception of reality. One of the ways we develop trust and authenticity is we state what we believe, and then we act in a manner that is compatible with the belief. If we can construct a simple equation that balances stated belief and action, we call individuals authentic. We might be willing to instill trust in them because of their authenticity.

Glorious Strategy vs Inaction

What is it like to review an exceptional strategy statement with promises for a balanced company culture that toggles between engaged work time and generative problem-solving? Is it idyllic? However, the actionable work plan is focused only on production, and all the supporting metrics are output-based. 

Like an athlete, our performance trends towards our practice routine. If we pledge board engagement but proceed for months without sending updates except to prod for more donations, we are not going to build an involved group. We might instill some behaviors worthy of a bank ATM.

How might our behaviors match our strategies and values? The most impactful starting point is in real-time. Do something immediately that connects behavior and the goal. We can write down the most glorious intentions, but how we act is more reflective of where we are heading.

For entertainment value, Chatgpt created the following misaligned example:

Vision Statement: To create a harmonious and prosperous society where every individual thrives in a world of abundance, equity, and sustainable development.

Mission Statement: Empower people and communities through innovative and compassionate solutions, fostering a culture of collaboration, inclusivity, and environmental stewardship.

Goals:

  1. Universal Well-being:
    • Ensure access to quality healthcare, education, and basic necessities for all.
    • Promote mental and emotional well-being through community support systems.
  2. Environmental Sustainability:
    • Achieve net-zero carbon emissions.
    • Promote conservation and sustainable use of natural resources.
  3. Inclusive Economy:
    • Establish an equitable economic system that eliminates poverty and provides equal opportunities for growth.
    • Encourage local, sustainable businesses to thrive.
  4. Global Unity:
    • Foster international collaboration and understanding.
    • Work towards the elimination of borders and the establishment of a unified global community.
  5. Technological Advancement for Humanity:
    • Develop and use technology for the betterment of society, ensuring ethical use and accessibility for all.

Work Plan:

While the strategic plan outlines a utopian vision, the work plan deviates from the idealistic goals.

  1. Production Metrics Focus:
    • Prioritize economic growth over social well-being.
    • Emphasize production metrics without considering environmental impact or resource depletion.
  2. Wealth Concentration:
    • Encourage wealth accumulation among a select few, leading to income inequality.
    • Neglect social safety nets and public services in favor of economic gains.
  3. Nationalistic Policies:
    • Adopt isolationist and nationalistic policies, hindering international collaboration and unity.
    • Promote protectionism, leading to unequal global development.
  4. Technological Disparity:
    • Develop and deploy technology without considering its ethical implications.
    • Allow technological advancements to exacerbate societal divisions rather than fostering inclusivity.
  5. Short-Term Profit Maximization:
    • Prioritize short-term economic gains at the expense of long-term sustainability.
    • Disregard the environmental impact of production processes.

Alignment Adjustment: To realign the work plan with the utopian goals, it is crucial to:

  • Integrate ethical considerations into production metrics.
  • Promote wealth distribution and prioritize social welfare over economic gains.
  • Embrace international collaboration and cooperation for global progress.
  • Ensure technology is developed and used responsibly, considering its impact on society and the environment.
  • Prioritize long-term sustainability and environmental stewardship in all decision-making processes.