Choice

Creating an organizational culture where people feel they have choice is quite powerful. Choice empowers and makes one feel in control of their environment resulting in a greater ownership of the work and an enhanced sense of belonging. The mere idea of choice increases psychological safety. Being able to say no and negotiating for a better outcome without fear of reprisal means that vulnerability isn’t a weakness. It’s courage to ensure the end result will be attained in a healthy, positive manner.

Of course there are limits to choice. Yet the limits, the structure around the choice making, is equally important for safety. Unlimited choice may become chaotic - too many choices can become burdensome.

For leaders, this means finding the balance of the power of choice within the structure of results.