I recently read some comments on a post discussing why certain tasks were not being completed within companies. The consensus was that upper management and the board were not prioritizing them. However, instead of proposing solutions, many people seemed to be giving up. While I understand that some individuals may feel defeated after repeatedly trying to change things, I was hoping to see some entrepreneurial spirits come forward with innovative ideas. Unfortunately, this did not happen. It makes me wonder if we have become complacent with new ideas.
Complacency refers to being pleased with oneself. However, an interesting read suggests complacency cannot be the root cause of an error or mishap. Rather, it is the system or workplace routine that is to blame, along with some other internal factors.
In the past, I worked with the Deming Method in a large organization to improve work processes that were not producing the desired results. Initially, many people were skeptical, but we got management's attention with concrete savings, findings, and changes that we presented during weekly meetings. We didn't wait for management to tell us what to do; instead, we incorporated the changes into our daily work because we, as managers, wanted to achieve something and demonstrate that our efforts were generating success. As a result, we saved time, reduced complaints, and made people happy. It was challenging, but it was also an accomplishment that we could look back on with pride.
Waiting for people at the top to give out all the directions can lead to complacency. This is why top workplace consultants often advise employees to "act as if you are the entrepreneur," regardless of whether they work for a small, medium, or large business. An entrepreneurial mindset (Forbes) is characterized by resiliency, adaptability, and a focus on growth. Even if you are not the CEO or the owner of a business, you are the CEO of yourself.
Complacency can hinder progress, and it is an entrepreneurial spirit that drives change and innovation forward.