Attitude makes the difference

How do you see your organization—as a machine or as a living organism? In times of uncertainty and change, this perspective determines success or stagnation. Because it's not just what we do or how we lead and manage that matters, but also the attitude with which we develop our organizations and shape collaboration.

When complexity meets the need for control

Especially in times of crisis, many organizations reflexively resort to mechanistic management: clear instructions, strict targets, top-down decisions. What ostensibly promises stability often proves to be a hindrance in complex, dynamic situations. The result when organizations are treated like machines: resistance, inefficiency—and exhausted leaders.

It's becoming increasingly clear that traditional cause-and-effect thinking patterns are no longer sufficient to deal with rapid change and contradictions. What kind of approach is needed, either as an alternative or in addition?

What constitutes a systemic attitude

The systemic approach is based on a profound understanding of organizations as living organisms – with complex interactions, but also the capacity for self-management. The result, when organizations are also treated as social systems: delegation and stakeholder participation, clear direction, effectiveness and efficiency, high performance – and motivated teams.

In our view, both approaches have their place when used effectively in the right context. However, organizations and leaders increasingly need the ability to recognize which approach and which management logic is more effective in which situation.

Conclusion: Attitude determines effect

Attitude isn't a soft topic—it's the lever for hard results. Those who aren't aware of their attitude unintentionally become a brake on the change process. However, those who embark on the path to reflecting on and developing their attitude open up spaces for true transformation.

Where do you stand with your position?

Would you like to find out how your leadership style influences the development of your team – and how you can guide your organization towards future viability?

You can find out more about this in our article “Attitude makes the difference” in the magazine Changement, issue 9/2024 or from one of us:

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