Max De Pree wrote in Leadership is an Art : “At the heart of being accountable is the matter of caring…In many areas of business, sadly, “to care” is an innovation.”
De Pree wrote the book in 1987 and sadly 30 years later caring is still a business unmet innovative space.
In the words of De Pree, to be accountable means caring. Often, my clients lament lack or low employee’s accountability, they ask “ how can we make people more accountable or care for…?”
The harsh truth is we can’t make people care. But, we can learn to care from and for one another.
We can’t care about the company or all the goals set upon us unless, we and our well-being, is taken care of. Caring may start with appreciation, with listening, with embodying presence…it is often NOT an outcome of rewards and incentives - which on the contrary push not to care. Incentives and rewards are a transaction—if you accomplish abc, then you receive xyz. Care and appreciation instead aren’t focused on the outcome but, on the human being. They acknowledge the person’s intention, desire and will to do their best, to be their best. It is an acknowledgement of someone for who they are.
In what other ways can you show care? Our actions show what we care for more than our words and crafted brands do. I often say “Show me how you care and I will tell you what you care for”.
The question isn’t “can I make art,” the real question is “Do I care enough to do it?” Seth Godin
Art practice is how I care. Art practice is what connects me to the world in a caring way. I care enough to believe that we can create a work culture like a piece of art. The reNEWal of society (and organisations) happens only if someone cares. Can we collectively care to re-connect with the sacred heART of being human? Can we care enough to collectively practice (art)?
If you’re interested in learning more about RNEWB services and would like to discuss any consultancy, workshops, and talks, drop us a line at fateme@rnewb.com.
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