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There is considerable debate surrounding the influence individuals have on shaping cultures. For instance, we often rely on leaders to establish a cultural tone that aligns with the mission, vision, and values of their organization. When individuals within the organization fail to work towards these shared objectives, discord may arise.
Moreover, it’s acknowledged that the environment also plays a significant role in shaping individuals. In a toxic environment, even highly capable individuals may struggle to thrive. Conversely, in a nurturing and supportive environment, individuals with varying levels of skills and talents can achieve remarkable feats. This underscores the mutual influence between people and their surroundings, where either can shape the other.
Recognizing this dynamic is crucial as we navigate the process of cultivating a culture and fostering a sense of identity within an organization.
Let’s examine these steps systematically.
I – IDENTITY
CAN / CANNOT – BELIEFS AND VALUE
DO – CAPABILITY / CAPACITY/ PERMISSION
THAT – BEHAVIOUR
HERE – ENVIRONMENT
In the intricate ecosystem of organizational dynamics, every element plays a pivotal role in informing and shaping the next, forming a symbiotic relationship that influences the organization’s culture and effectiveness. From individual identity to beliefs, values, behaviours, capabilities, and the surrounding environment, each component interconnects to create a cohesive and impactful organizational framework. Let’s explore how each element informs and shapes the next in this intricate dance of organizational dynamics.
1. Identity (I):
At the heart of every organization lies the individual and collective identity of its members. Identity encompasses the unique traits, experiences, and aspirations that define who we are within the organizational context. Our identity shapes our perceptions, attitudes, and interactions with others, laying the foundation for our roles and contributions within the organization.
2. Beliefs and Values (CAN/CANNOT):
Beliefs and values serve as guiding principles that inform our decisions, actions, and priorities within the organization. They reflect what we stand for and what we aspire to achieve collectively. Our beliefs and values shape the organizational culture, influencing the norms, rituals, and traditions that govern behaviour and interactions among members.
3. Capability/Capacity/Permission (DO):
Our capabilities, capacities, and permissions determine the extent to which we can enact our beliefs and values within the organizational context. Capabilities refer to the skills, knowledge, and resources we possess to fulfil our roles and responsibilities. Capacity relates to our ability to effectively utilize these resources. Permissions encompass the authority and autonomy granted to us by organizational structures and leaders to act upon our beliefs and values.
4. Behaviour (THAT):
Behaviours are the observable manifestations of our beliefs, values, capabilities, and permissions within the organizational environment. Our actions, interactions, and decisions influence the dynamics of the organization, shaping its culture and collective identity. Behaviours can reinforce existing norms or challenge them, driving change and evolution within the organization.
5. Environment (HERE):
The organizational environment provides the context within which identity, beliefs, values, capabilities, and behaviours unfold. It encompasses the physical workspace, cultural climate, social dynamics, and external factors that impact organizational life. The environment shapes and is shaped by the interactions among individuals and the collective identity of the organization.
Understanding the interconnectedness of these elements is essential for leaders and members alike as they navigate the complexities of organizational life. By recognizing how each element informs and shapes the next, organizations can cultivate a culture of purpose, collaboration, and innovation. Leaders can leverage this understanding to design environments that empower individuals, align behaviours with values, and foster a sense of belonging and fulfilment.
Now The Reverse
How Environment Affects Behaviour
It is abundantly clear that the environment, whether it pertains to the physical surroundings or the emotional atmosphere, exerts a significant influence on people’s behaviour. Whether individuals find themselves in a crowded room or in a spacious setting, whether they are subjected to extreme temperatures or enjoy comfort, and whether they experience psychological safety or feelings of anxiety and distress, all of these environmental variables impact their behaviour. These factors shape individuals’ thoughts, emotions, and actions, ultimately determining their behaviour.
How Behaviour Affects Capability/Capacity/Permission
Behaviour, in turn, plays a crucial role in shaping individuals’ capacity, capability, and willingness to engage in various activities. The behaviours exhibited by individuals inform their ability to perform tasks, their skills, and their readiness to take on challenges. In environments where individuals are encouraged to question, explore, and take ownership of their actions, their behaviour fosters a sense of empowerment and capability. Conversely, in environments where compliance and obedience are prioritized over autonomy and initiative, behaviour is constrained, limiting individuals’ capacity and capability to act.
How Capability/Capacity/Permission Affects Beliefs And Values
The capacity, capability, and permissions afforded to individuals within their environment significantly influence their beliefs and values. People’s sense of agency, control, and their perception of themselves as either protagonists, victims, or antagonists are deeply rooted in their beliefs and values. When individuals feel empowered and in control of their circumstances, their beliefs may align with notions of self-efficacy and resilience. However, when individuals perceive a loss of control or experience situations that challenge their beliefs, feelings of victimhood, marginalization, anxiety, or fear may arise. This incongruence between what individuals believe should happen and what actually occurs leads to cognitive dissonance and uncertainty, shaping their beliefs and values accordingly.
How Beliefs And Values Affects Identity
Moreover, the impact of beliefs and values extends to individuals’ sense of identity. The uncertainty generated by conflicting narratives between external influences and internal convictions can profoundly affect how individuals perceive themselves and their place in the world. Instances of gaslighting, where individuals begin to doubt their own perceptions and adopt external narratives, exemplify the complex interplay between beliefs, values, and identity. As individuals grapple with existential questions of morality, ethics, and belonging, their sense of identity becomes intertwined with their beliefs and values, presenting profound psychological and existential dilemmas.
In essence, the relationship between environment, behaviour, capability, capacity, permission, beliefs, values, and identity is intricate and multifaceted. Understanding these interconnected dynamics is crucial for creating environments that foster empowerment, resilience, and well-being, where individuals can thrive and realize their full potential.
Tim HJ Rogers
Consult | CoCreate | Deliver
I support people and teams to grow, perform and succeed unlocking potential as a partner Consultant, Coach, Project and Change Manager. Together we can deliver projects and change, and improve the confidence, capacity, drive and desire of the people I work with.
ICF Trained Coach | MBA Management Consultant | PRINCE2 Project Manager, Agile Scrum Master | AMPG Change Practitioner | Mediation Practitioner | BeTheBusiness Mentor | 4 x GB Gold Medalist | First Aid for Mental Health | Certificate in Applied Therapeutic Skills
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