"The only constant in life is change. This truth is as salient today as it was when the ancient Greek philosopher Heraclitus posited the idea centuries ago. It's a truth that most modern leaders know firsthand, especially when it comes to culture. Culture is in constant flux. Emergent ideas are introduced to an organization-be they new technologies or nascent philosophies-which catalyze new imaginations and result in new ways of work."
"These are the existing conventions of an organization that were once introduced and integrated into its operating system but linger about even after a leader departs. Some were advantageous in the moment but perhaps soured over time. Others were likely rejected at first glance but eventually revealed themselves to be useful. These cultural contributions can be edifying or detrimental to an organization."
Organizational culture continuously evolves as new technologies and philosophies introduce fresh behaviors and ways of working. Legacy cultural elements often persist as embedded conventions that remain after leadership changes, sometimes beneficial and sometimes harmful. Leaders must intentionally identify which legacy elements to retain and which to remove in order to align culture with present needs. Effective cultural stewardship requires balancing continuity—deep, slow-changing beliefs—with adaptation—faster-changing behaviors and practices—to enable sustainable performance and future readiness.
Read at Fast Company
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