Imprinted Moments

Each of us has moments in our life history that imprint themselves on us, set the foundation for what we “know” life holds, and become the backdrop against which we see everything. For someone living through the Depression, for example, what they know life holds might be scarcity, and against that backdrop all actions might be infused with frugality. The thing is, in the scheme of things these moments — even if decades long — are fleeting. And with the dawn of the Knowledge Age these moments pass even more quickly.  

Recently I read a blogpost about vision-based versus mission-based culture.  At its essence the post recognizes that organizational risk-taking and innovation are indicia of good stewardship. Leadership requires stepping away from imprinted moments not because those moments are outdated or inherently good or bad, but because they are not the only backdrops against which all else should be measured. When we allow ourselves to see multiple backgrounds against which things can be viewed, it changes how the things in the foreground appear. This is particularly important for non-profits, the purpose of which is to bring about change, rather than maintain the status quo (or sometimes, to maintain the status quo in opposition to change on the horizon; in any event, it's not riding the wave). This is particularly true in the 21st century, a time when transparency is demanded and information is abundant.

I am exercising my ability to exorcise my set backdrops. For example:

• Kids get up in the morning and go to school:  moment not fact.  
• College education and professional training lead to prosperity: moment not a fact.

I don't expect that I will move past my imprinted moments and I'm not sure I want to.  Deep down I may always feel that leg warmers and shoulder pads are a reasonable style choice. But that doesn't mean I have to wear them.