“There are rules…and there are other rules”

Mad Men

Which rules do you follow, and which rules do you consider suggestions? Speed limits? Carry on bag allowances on commercial airplanes? Suggested contributions for entry? Paying taxes? Jury duty? Attending meetings?

We adapt to rules based on a number of referral points. In the State of Idaho, there is a traffic rule that cyclists can treat a Stop sign as a Yield sign as long as they are not impeding traffic flow. It is called the “Idaho Stop.” It is a practice adopted by cyclists in states that do not have the “Idaho Stop” as part of the traffic code. Technically, it is a violation, but when done in appropriate circumstances, it keeps the cyclists safer and allows motorists to proceed more efficiently.

Each enterprise has ‘rules’ and ‘RULES.’ The trick is communicating the expectations behind these regulations. Some practices are in place to demonstrate respect and maintain a hierarchy. Others are essential for the organization to function. Occasionally, breaking the rules is critical to success and/or life safety.

How might we set our team up for success by illuminating what is non-negotiable and what is a suggestion? How might we recognize that circumstances might change the rules? And lastly, are our rules and values aligned?