Every year around this time, I revisit my personal philosophy—my values, purpose, mission, and vision. This year’s reflection has been particularly consequential. Over the past two years, I’ve navigated some monumental changes. And I’ve discovered that even after 30 years of helping leaders manage transformation, it’s considerably harder when you’re the change manager, change agent, and impacted stakeholder all at once.
It’s also prompted me to reconsider how I create value. I’ve spent much of my career working hands-on with executives through demanding organizational transformations. The work has been rewarding, but I’m no longer interested in the grueling hours that often accompany it. Fortunately, experience creates options. Coaching, advising, teaching, and writing offer different ways to make a meaningful contribution.
I’m still figuring out where I’ll land. But I wouldn’t expect my philosophy today to look like it did five years ago. Organizations shouldn’t expect that either. Strategic Philosophy deserves deliberate reconsideration, at least annually. When the world changes, what once guided us effectively may deserve another look.