Navigating Workplace Challenges: Finding Harmony in Mission and Values

How do businesses handle social pressures? The support for causes, the debates about bathrooms, and the ongoing saga of masks – it’s a real maze out there. Our ExecuJava group took to tackling the question. No judgment, just genuine curiosity.

At the core of our conversation was a pivotal inquiry: Do we adapt to the ebb and flow, stay true to our principles, or strictly adhering to the law? The landscape is diverse, with some embracing the current, going with the flow, while others stand resolute in their beliefs. Then there are those who dutifully abide by the law and those who keep a keen eye on trends, adjusting their sails accordingly.

To navigate the intricate landscape, we took a moment to reflect on the tumultuous year that was 2020 – a rollercoaster. We openly discussed the various approaches companies took during the pandemic, using the mask dilemma as a vivid example on how businesses were making choices around charged issues.

1. Lawful Citizens: Some stuck to the rulebook – no mask, no entry.
2. Trend Trackers: Others kept an eye on what other companies were up to and joined the bandwagon.
3. Client’s Call: Some danced to the tune of their clients, especially if they were in the healthcare business and needed to mask up.
4. Employee’s Call: A few played it cool, focusing on what their team felt comfortable with, letting them decide whether to show up in the office or stay in their PJs at home.
5. Decision Dilemmas: Making choices amidst uncertainty was challenging. A layered decision-making process involved asking, “Is it time yet?" and "What are we cool with now?" It was all about embracing the uncertainty one step at a time.

We also delved about common sense – for example, if you're sick, stay home. A no-brainer, right? But it’s not always that simple. We're in this workaholic culture, and sometimes leaders forget about balancing implicit and explicit values along with our messaging. A cautionary note was also shared about being swayed by whomever has the microphone, emphasizing the importance of consistency.

The big take away – stay on mission! Tune out the noise, stick to your values, and make it about what the company stands for. Get everyone on board, even the skeptics. It’s not about being a democracy but showing that everyone has a role in the mission. It’s a balance between philosophy and operations and prioritizing a mission-driven approach.

The point is, to navigate this ever-evolving workplace landscape, keep your eyes on the mission. Values within that mission – that's the key. Stay true, stay focused.

Article summarized by LeAnn Case from a discussion with members of the #ExecuJava group: Eric Berg , Troy Case , Brad Crandall , Nicki Gibbs , and Matt Lasiuta .