From 6c4526558a471d78579559cae96ce27ee7f0c9dc Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: Lee Byron Date: Mon, 24 Jul 2023 12:03:39 -0700 Subject: [PATCH] add: radiate intent --- entries/radiate intent.md | 60 ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ media/d952123032e51b0f.svg | 1 + 2 files changed, 61 insertions(+) create mode 100644 entries/radiate intent.md create mode 100644 media/d952123032e51b0f.svg diff --git a/entries/radiate intent.md b/entries/radiate intent.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..86d37d4 --- /dev/null +++ b/entries/radiate intent.md @@ -0,0 +1,60 @@ +--- +title: radiate intent +permalink: intent +date: 2023-07-24T12:02:27-07:00 +tags: leadership management +--- + +> It's easier to ask forgiveness than it is to get permission. +> +>
— Grace Hopper[^1] + +[^1]: + This advice as quoted was popularized by all around badass Grace Hopper. + However various forms + [have been cited](https://quoteinvestigator.com/2018/06/19/forgive/), back + as far as St. Benedict in 500 AD. Likely some form of it has existed as long + as there has been organized human society. + +This is classic advice when operating in a large organization. You see a problem +to be solved, have a bold solution in mind, and have everything necessary to +take action, but there will be very real costs felt broadly. You think the +tradeoff is worth it, but will your higher-ups agree or will they simply blame +you for the costs without appreciating the larger problem solved? + +In this position you likely have the best information on the decision but may +assume you need permission to incur the costs. If your higher-ups assume the +same then analysis paralysis sets in and it's unlikely you'll hear anything new +that changes your original assessment. If it's a good idea, _go ahead and do +it_. Grace Hopper encouraged a bias to action; to do the right thing for the org +whether or not they know it to be. If you're wrong or get flak for the costs: +ask forgiveness; you acted in good faith. + +This is good advice missing one critical thing: _radiating intent_. + +While "forgiveness, not permission" considers what you're asking, it says +nothing about what you're telling. If you anticipate needing to ask forgiveness +after taking action then its best to get ahead of it by explaining the decision +clearly immediately after you've made it. Even better, explain the decision +_before_ you make it then radiate it, sharing it far and wide. + +![intent](../media/d952123032e51b0f.svg) + +With this frame in mind it becomes more clear that rather than shifting your ask +from before until after you act, instead shift from asking to telling. + +Elizabeth Ayer, in her +[excellent article](https://medium.com/@ElizAyer/dont-ask-forgiveness-radiate-intent-d36fd22393a3) +on radiating intent explains why it's superior to asking forgiveness (or +permission), which I've editorialized: + +- Invites participation from those with critical information or a desire to help +- In case you're wrong, it gives a chance for someone to stop you _before_ hand +- Leaves evidence of good faith action. Better to be seen as predictable than + underhanded. +- Sets the example that bold action and taking risks is encouraged from + everyone, not just organizational higher-ups. +- Keeps responsibility on the actor who owns the outcome good or bad. Doesn’t + transfer blame as seeking permission does. + +If it's a good idea, go ahead and do it. Own the outcome. _Radiate intent!_ diff --git a/media/d952123032e51b0f.svg b/media/d952123032e51b0f.svg new file mode 100644 index 0000000..6ba5bc6 --- /dev/null +++ b/media/d952123032e51b0f.svg @@ -0,0 +1 @@ + \ No newline at end of file