Difficult times call for action

The current era presents many challenges. Both large and small challenges, but moreover, a multitude of challenges. These are issues related to labor market shortages, financial constraints, cultural and moral dilemmas, etc. They are often questions that our current working generation has not faced before. Who can recall—within their career thus far—an inflation rate exceeding 12%? Consequently, these are also issues that we cannot simply tackle using our routine. This can make it particularly difficult for organizations to feel competent in addressing such challenges.

In recent times, I have been called upon several times to find answers to such questions. I observe many organizations acting based on their primary behaviors and routines. They struggle significantly with the answers that need to be provided, the actions that must be taken, and the results that must be achieved. I understand this well. We are now confronted with issues that require a very different approach than how we operated in the past. As I write this, I realize that this phrase has been repeated so often. The words that once mattered are losing their weight and urgency. And that is challenging because this time is indeed fundamentally different! Money is no longer available in the same capacity as in the past. The problems can often no longer be solved simply by implementing a few interventions within the organization. No, it goes much deeper than that. Existential questions are being tapped into when addressing these issues. This is both intriguing and frightening at the same time.

"..It's shivering time. Let's dress warmly and step up our pace to reach our final goal."

In this regard, I have recently engaged organizations in seizing leadership opportunities. It’s not just about having good ideas, but also about realizing them adequately and persistently. It can be incredibly challenging, but when the question arises, you cannot avoid answering it. I find it positive when the boards of organizations and their employees express that they were not hired for such challenges, or at least that they feel incapable of fulfilling that task. It seems so far removed from the job for which they were hired. When a request for help emerges, however, there is light at the end of the tunnel. Expressing a need for assistance and a willingness to learn (and thus also to make mistakes) allows us to work towards a solution. It’s certainly not easy, but there is movement; action! And that will help us arrive at solutions.

This image is displayed in Dutch and has not been translated. Below, the context is explained.

My sequence of actions always follows these steps: (i) see, (ii) want, (iii) can, and (iv) do. From this approach, we arrive at the right results, provided we give sufficient genuine attention to everything.

This may sound too simple for your problems, but believe me, it is not. Do not hesitate to reach out to me to exchange thoughts regarding what you are facing or dealing with. We will take the time to discuss your issue. Perhaps I can be of assistance to you.

Best regards,