WEEKLY WISDOM - CULTURE

Culture: the set of shared attitudes, values, goals, and practices that characterizes an institution or organization.

There has been so much about culture expressed over the last couple of years. Also, no matter what environment you enter, culture exists. What creates culture are the people that connect and engage with each other. Without people, there is no culture! There are only inordinate objects or furnishings that are sterile. The energy, engagement, and activity that brings culture to life are people.

Let’s define culture. According to Marriam-webster and the context of this letter, culture is the set of shared attitudes, values, goals, and practices that characterizes an institution or organization. These institutions and organizations are populated with people who in essence engage in these attributes from person to person.

Based on my personal and professional life, there is a culture in my immediate as well as extended family. There is a specific culture in my work environment, the church that I attend, the non-profit organizations where I serve, the social community that I am engaged in. The point is that no matter where you go, you become a part of that culture and can possibly influence the culture.

In my profession, there has already been a culture established for many years by the founders of the organization as well as the mission, vision and values that have been established by the leaders. Sometimes the challenge is leaders and staff living out those attributes on a consistent basis where it becomes the desired environment for the organization. You can play a major role in this process no matter your level or role in the organization. How?

Here’s the challenge focus; are you an effective, influential, and positive contributor to the cultures in which you a part of? This is where you become instrumental in your leadership and influence on others. You can bring your character and integrity to the table daily. You can ensure that you embody and outwardly support the vision, mission, and values. You can communicate the culture in various ways to your clients, community, partners, and employees. You can challenge other staff members when they negatively go outside of the desired culture.

In my social culture example, I have a small group of men that I have brought together with the intention of making each other better in every area of our lives. It is as Proverbs 27:17 states, Iron Sharpens Iron. The conversations I have with them, the resources that I bring to the table, the values, character, and integrity I embody all play into the kind of culture that I can lead and influence.

In essence, you are a huge part of the kind of culture that others will experience when they interact with you either in your personal or professional life. Keeping an active consciousness of your influence and leadership in every interaction will build your brand and make you a respected leader or influencer. For biblical guidance on culture, study Matthew Chapters 5-7.

(ENGAGEMENT)

Exercise Your Power this week

1.       Read Matthew Chapters 5-7 to have a biblical view of culture. 

2.      Determine the best culture that you are a part of and identify what makes it great- focus on the people aspect.

3.       Identify ways you can enhance the cultures that you are a part of.