Inevitably when we make any significant decision that will have a substantial bearing on an entity, we assume the decision with the knowledge, insights, and fortitude to execute sustainably.
Why would organizations take on a significant project requiring significant investment unless it is well planned and secure long-term funding? Leaders understand the commitment they are making, and there is a conviction to succeed.
The project begins in earnest, and individuals invest their time, dedicate their capacity to achieve success. In most cases, there will be adversity and multiple challenges to overcome frequently, yet we stay on the path towards the vision. We understand that even with progress, there will also be ongoing tests. It is part of the pledge to the cause.
With leadership changes, there is a risk a shift in focus may result. Leaders are under pressure to perform and demonstrate their ability to make difficult decisions in the organization’s best interest and internal and external stakeholders. Some decisions may prove favorable, and then again, possibly not. These decisions impact the people within the organization and maybe the organization’s key partners and the supporting community.
When an organization changes direction, what is its responsibility? Should there be an expectation for a seamless transition to minimize disruption and adversity to people?
Yet even today, organizations will shut down production and move away to other areas typically because it is in the organization’s interest and likely its shareholders. So, what of those who worked in the facility that shut down, the local community, and the support partners?
People will lose their jobs, supporting businesses will close, families will lose their homes, and communities will lose hope.
What happens when we place people’s physical lives at risk for our endeavor, with the promise of future prosperity, and individuals dedicate their lives to the initiative and commit to the cause. Is our responsibility heightened?
We would hope that those who lead would be mindful of the consequences of their decisions and respectful of the efforts of all individuals who came before them. We would expect they chose to lead with integrity and minimize the loss of hope and even possibly life.
If we expect the organization to behave in an honorable manner and consider the impact on the broader community and sacrifices made, what should we expect of nations?
And what is our role as individuals, after all, we make up communities, which form nations?
