The devastating impact of solid foundations

In 1906, a devastating earthquake struck San Francisco.

The earthquake, of course, was a natural phenomena. The structures built by settlers, new to the west coast of North America were engineered without the knowledge of the frequency, impact, and even existence of such phenomena. So, in truth, the disaster was in the mis-application of one way of knowing to new environments. It was a failure of listening, attention, and adaptation. A failure of hubris.

Organisations (businesses, communities, political systems) are making the same mistake. Applying expired ways of organizing to the problems and opportunities we face today. Have a look at any organizational chart, and they look like solid structures built on the (naturally!) shaky ground of a world of constant change and flux.

In retrospect, had the builders on San Francisco Bay listened to (and not murdered, enslaved, and displaced) the native peoples, had they taken the time and pace to build relationship with the ecosystem and geography of what is now the Bay Area of California (rather then rapidly extract and exploit its resources for quick gains), the result of a natural event would been out much different .

We know better now; that old ways interacting with new ways offer transformational possibilities that don't deny the movement of history, but flow with it, for better outcomes for all. We don't always act with this knowing.

If lead, steward, or support any group of humans working together toward common aims, our trainings below offer ways to build a soft, moveable, adaptable foundation for your efforts. Which, ironically, are much more sustainable. Yes they take time, energy, awareness, and courage to build. if you're getting this email, you likely have these qualities in abundance.