As participants within the larger system, we are all contributing a unique set of energies.  Much like an orchestra, our individual vibrations blend with the vibrations of those around us to make the sound of our “culture” (family culture, company culture, national culture, etc.). The key to finding a sustainable “culture” is to understand both our own energies, and the energies of those around us. Much like jazz music, by listening and adjusting our “natural” energy as needed we can make beautiful, long lasting music.

Many leaders of systems try to play unnatural roles which will create discomfort, stress, and anxiety inside the system they manage (ex. chronically understaffed organizations, or mismanaged finances, etc. ). This is like a saxophone playing the oboe role.  We may get away with it for a short while but over time our true pitch will come out and consequences will be addressed.  This is only natural.

When systems play at an unnatural (unsustainable) frequency,  the stress and anxiety builds up over time.  If not proactively addressed by leadership, a system will eventually self correct (ex. Key employees quit, bankruptcy, divorce, etc.).

To reach our full potential we must learn to play the instrument that has been given to us. We must understanding our strengths and limitations. We must understand the strengths and limitations of those around us. We must realize we operate both as a system with internal components, and operate within a larger system (as an internal component). We must therefore understand and manage both our internal energies and the energies we project to the world. We should strive for sustainability.

About the Author: deohako

Chris Anderson is a Systems Thinker living in Austin, TX. He has worked as a consultant for several Financial, Government and Manufacturing organizations across North America, Europe, and Asia.