Summary
For those of us in roles that aim to link experiences, see things end-to-end, or understand systems as ecosystems, the constant currents of change can make it feel like we’re endlessly adapting just to keep up. We long for a stable point of definition and clarity amid all this motion. In this talk, I’ll draw from my experience across various roles and companies to help you recognize and navigate the broader forces shaping our related fields. Using metaphors like oxbows, rivers, and estuaries, and with practical examples, I’ll share tactics for navigating change with intention, helping you stay grounded in the long game while seizing “act now” opportunities.
Key Insights
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Integrative roles face significant emotional and cognitive challenges in navigating complex organizational structures.
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Organizations place pressure on roles for efficiency and simplification, often at the cost of depth and nuance.
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Cooperation among diverse roles can lead to greater creativity and insight.
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Maturity within organizations is not linear; varying levels of capability exist across different teams.
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Understanding and leveraging existing company models is crucial to function effectively within cross-functional teams.
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Navigating current pressures involves recognizing the currents of change, viewing them as obstacles or aids.
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Metaphors like rivers, oxbow lakes, and estuaries can provide meaningful frameworks for thinking about organizational change.
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Collaboration often occurs in unexpected places, and unlikely partnerships can yield significant results.
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Recognizing that perceptions of progress are subjective can help in navigating professional growth.
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Patient opportunism involves leveraging existing resources and support for more effective change management.
Notable Quotes
"I joke about being a system overthinker."
"Maturity is not linear."
"Things aren't always what they seem in organizations."
"In a company, you have to understand where the water is flowing."
"It's easy to miss obstacles that are below the surface."
"There is a battle of models at play in every organization."
"It's impossible to survive by swimming upstream all the time."
"Leverage the current and angle against the forces when necessary."
"Look for those eddies in the river where you can take a break."
"Collaborative ecosystems are crucial for fostering innovation."
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