# The Pivot Point in the War of Organizational Progress By:: [[Brian Heath]] 2023-12-13 Within organizations with unproductive and negative cultures, many become jaded if they survive beyond the first year. They probably started with positive intentions and outlooks. They desired to make an impact and move things forward. However, after repeated failures and put-downs, they often move on or give up and enter a "retired-in-place" state of being. The "retired-in-place" individuals are masters of waiting and doing nothing. This is partly due to how they've been treated, but it also indicates the power of adherence to norms. Essentially, by staying, they become the thing they once disliked. If one enters such an organization, encounters such people, and desires to make progress, one should be prepared for a battle of attrition. Who can last longer: the norm-adhering veteran or the misguided outsider? There are several ways one can begin the battle. If one is in a position of power, one could emulate a dictator. More often than not, this will fail, as even a dictator needs support. Coming out of the gate strong will be met with equal resistance. Alternatively, one may enter the battle as a colleague and supporter. After all, it is unlikely that all these individuals started "negative." It is more likely that the positivity was sucked out of them over many years by the vampiric organization. A friendly entry builds connections and a potential support network, but there are limits as it is easy to become assimilated like everyone else in the organization. At some point, one must move against the organizational culture with an army at their side. In these moments, the actual colors of individuals will shine brightly. Many will be on one's side, but many more will revert to the comfort of the status quo. If one is a leader, one must not be afraid to call out the bullshit that emerges. One is obligated to make the hard calls if one believes in the organizational mission and solidarity. Only some people will get on the bus, and not everyone should be allowed to get on the bus. This is counter to the kumbaya corporate bullshit designed to keep things as they are: a perfect harmonious balance of misery and suffering. At some point, one must call an end to the excuses and subpar intentionality and execution. To do this, one must be strong in one's conviction that can only come from psychosis or deep reflection. The difference will be decided by history and a jury of one's peers. #### Related Items [[Organization]] [[Progress]] [[Culture]] [[Change]] [[War]] [[Leadership]]