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Most organizations start out lean and mean. They’re willing to take risks and try new things. It doesn’t take forever to make decisions or change directions. As the market fluctuates and shifts they’re nimble enough to go with the flow. They’re fighting guerilla warfare style. Inevitably, these organizations grow up though.

More people means added complexity. This leads to rules and guidelines. Rules are good because they help set expectations. However, they’re also bad because they tend to generic and rigid. No one wants the word “generic” to describe their business.

You’ve been successful so you play not to lose. Have you ever watched a sports team playing not to lose? They usually end up losing. They’re timid and reserved. No on wants the words “timid” and “reserved” to describe their business.

Grown up organizations also tend to struggle with memory loss. They forget why the hell they started doing this. At some point along the way the main thing isn’t the main thing anymore. It becomes about “satisfying customers”. (Who wants satisfied customers? I want ecstatic customers!) It becomes about pleasing shareholders or moving our profit margin up a menial .5% this month over the last. You need a mission, a mantra, a dream, an enemy. No one wants the words “satisfied” or “menial” to describe their business.

The trick is to grow your business without killing it’s soul. That takes leadership.

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