Set It—But Don’t Forget It: Why Culture Shaping Is Cyclical
Let’s say you’re now standing in front of the figurative thermostat dial for the teams in your life and work.
You’ve reflected on the path ahead, the important people and intentional steps you want to take. Now it’s time to set your dial to the temperature you want to create.
But there are a couple final things to remember as you begin the process.
First, if you’re an avid TV viewer or infomercial lover, the name Ron Popeil may ring a bell. Popeil is an American inventor and direct response marketing personality who became famous for his infomercial line he would say over and over again with one of his products. “
Set it, and forget it!”
The catchy saying broke in to pop culture, and it was not uncommon to hear someone urge another to, “Set it, and forget it!”
Well, as popular as the saying became, it doesn’t work here. In fact, the effectiveness of dropping anchors within your culture to set your desired temperature will be directly linked to your ability to “Set it and NOT forget it!”
The 6 A’s (Assess, Align, Aspire, Articulate, Act, Anchor) are not a one-time thing. They are continuous. The process never stops.
Once you finish anchoring, you go right back to Assess. The most compelling leaders and groups are committed to this process month after month, quarterly and yearly. The temperature is always being adjusted.
Lastly, I need to remind you that the temperature won’t drastically change overnight. But the needle will move.
There will still be moments where it is too hot in the room or too cool. But you’ll recognize those moments with more clarity. Some people will not like the temperature you’re trying to set because they don’t want to change. But you will also find those who rise up to partner with you to move things forward.
You need to set your own thermostat first so that you’re able to help others. You might be the leader by title, but you are also a leader in the sense that someone is always watching what you’re doing. They’re taking their cues from you. The way you begin to shift your thinking, acting and interacting will reverberate to others. Your vibrations will begin to spread a new temperature.
What do you want your culture to become? Begin the process.
Jason V. Barger is a globally celebrated keynote speaker, leadership coach and author of Thermostat Cultures, Step Back from the Baggage Claim and ReMember. He is founder of Step Back Leadership Consulting, a Columbus-based company that works with businesses and organizations worldwide. Connect via email at jason@JasonVBarger.com or on social media at @JasonVBarger.
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