Joseph's "Just My Thoughts"

Power is often granted rather than generated. In other words, it derives from the consensual approval of others. The dilemma lies in whether to use the power conferred to the organization. If power is not utilized when it should be, it leads to neglect and a breach of trust. Conversely, if it is used when it should not be, it constitutes interference and violence. So, how do we distinguish between these situations? It should be exercised decisively when disagreements need resolution, when injustice or crime is anticipated or has occurred, or when harm is expected to be, or has been, inflicted on someone. In these instances, the use of power must be accompanied by accountability. Power should be deployed only if no one else is accountable for the choices and decisions made. Otherwise, it is better left to the organization’s discretion. Consequently, power, leadership, and benefits are healthy only when proportional to the level of responsibility. - Joseph’s “just my thoughts”

In a society and organization where we live together, balance and dedication are essential. Balance refers to the proper allocation of resources within the organization, while dedication means devoting energy to others. This balance and dedication are always necessary whenever we are with others, yet contradictions arise here. In other words, the energy for dedication emerges when the balance is disrupted. Since both cannot be established simultaneously, it is important to maintain the cycle properly. First, we achieve balance; then it is disrupted for a while, necessitating the devotion of our energy, after which we need a cycle to regain balance again. Organizations function within this cycle. - Joseph’s “just my thoughts”

Organizations with perfect leaders clearly achieve results. People might assume that such leadership is excellent due to its accomplishments. However, a perfect leader makes decisions only within the limits of their knowledge and does not propose or challenge areas they do not comprehend. After all, a perfect leader shouldn’t fail. As a result, only yes-men surround the perfect leader, while those who disagree tend to leave the organization. What will remain for that leader in 10 or 20 years from such success? - Joseph’s “just my thoughts”

When leaders are busy, organizations are at risk. Leaders who don’t acknowledge reality, who can’t make decisions and let time pass during conflicts, who can’t trust others, and who intervene in even minor matters exemplify incomparably incompetent leaders who disguise themselves with their own integrity to avoid failure. Leaders who fail to recognize their limitations and cannot delegate their responsibilities to others will harm both themselves and the organization while they keep their positions. - Joseph’s “just my thoughts”

The phenomenon where an organization prioritizes self-interest over cooperation between departments is called the silo effect. A silo refers to a chimney-shaped grain storage warehouse, named for its high, stacked walls that isolate it from the outside. If someone controlled the opening by creating only one funnel-shaped outlet at the bottom of the storage room, they could monopolize the grain. This phenomenon often arises when there are ‘irreplaceable talented individuals’ in an organization, which presents a challenge for a boss desiring to develop such individuals. It undermines all the positive functions of the organization. Exceptional individuals organize their impressive performance so that the organization can sustain that performance even in their absence. Misusing talent can ruin a business. - Joseph’s “just my thoughts”

Leaders delegate, while bosses manage. Organizations that have numerous meetings and extensive reporting are led by bosses, not leaders. Another factor contributing to this phenomenon is that the work being performed is viewed not as a product but as a project. Product work emphasizes customer experience, whereas project work relates to compliance deadlines. Consequently, project work involves many meetings and reporting. Dysfunctional organizations are characterized by excessive meetings, while successful organizations prioritize conversations over meetings. - Joseph’s “just my thoughts”

The phenomenon of making choices that contradict one’s genuine feelings in order to avoid isolation or blend in with others is termed the “Abilene Paradox.” Such paradoxes occur when a group’s choice results in unfavorable outcomes, even as a member publicly endorses it while secretly criticizing the group’s original decision. This situation often arises from individuals’ fear that voicing their discomfort may disturb others, particularly in settings that suppress authentic emotional expression. This underscores the difficulty of effective organizational communication and emphasizes the vital role that leadership plays in any organization. - Joseph’s “just my thoughts”

A good manager needs to grasp human needs before they can act virtuously. Focusing on morality without addressing desires leads to an authoritarian organization. Authoritarian structures are detrimental because they stifle individual spontaneity. Organizations that suppress this spontaneity face excessive costs and are likely to fall behind in competition. - Joseph’s “just my thoughts”

A comment system was in place at a United States Forest Service branch with 2,500 employees. The employees were instructed to submit their proposals on page 4 for comment. Two hundred and fifty-two proposals were submitted over four years. In terms of the number of employees, one idea was proposed every 40 years. The change was necessary. Employees were required to submit a brief idea outline via email. In 30 days, the idea could be implemented if there was no response from the designated contact and no legal issues arose. In the first year, 6,000 ideas were generated. A person without creativity may enter the organization, but the organization may destroy creativity. It's more effective to eliminate factors that impede creativity than to attempt to enhance it. - Joseph’s “just my thoughts”