Monday, January 26, 2009

How come politics is only about self-interest

Politics is littered with Self-interest and virtually no leadership. I can only imagine that people that choose a career in politics begin with a desire to service the public, their community or their Country. What happens that diverts them from this noble goal, to one of party rhetoric and self-interest above all else.

I have yet to see a politician that can actually acknowledge that someone from another party actually had a good idea. Or is acting in a way that is in service of their constituents, or is aligned with their ideology. Why would that be so wrong? In Canada, we learn in high-school that political parties, have different ideologies. There are common problems for a Country, and the difference political parties hold different approaches to solving them. Why is this so bad? Why is it that politicians don't have the confidence (in themselves) to stand for their beliefs? To stand as leaders do, in the face of no agreement. Any act of leadership means you are standing in the face of no agreement (otherwise leadership wouldn't be required). So when it comes to politicians, they (all parties) seem more comfortable, telling you why their opponent (isn't doing something, is changing their own position, etc.. etc.. etc...). If they were real leaders they would have a position and share it, support it, and have the courage to talk about it.. and when different view are put forward, they should have the confidence to review, appreciate and understand other viewpoints.. and maybe.. they should have the confidence to include them.. cause maybe the ideas are good, and they just haven't thought about it in that way...

In organization, that is what leaders do.... so why are politicians so difference? and what does it serve.... self-interest, I guess...

Thursday, January 1, 2009

Human System Change

What does it take to change behaviour?

Some event (actually or perceived) is what is needed to change habitual behaviors. With a new year upon us, do you have a behaviour that you want to change?

If this behaviour doesn't change ... where will the road you are traveling take you? (call that the status quo).

What is the cost of the status quo? When the (metaphoric) cost of the status quo becomes to expensive, changing behaviour will be a snap. Look back into your own experience when you have changed a habitual behaviour... At what point did you decide that the cost of the status quo was too high??? What was the breakdown that occurred, prior to the behavioural change?? Answering these questions will provide you valuable knowledge if you want to change a habitual behaviour... Conduct an inquiry on yourself.. and the results may be illuminating for you......