Ever wondered about the difference between leaders who merely 'play the game' and those who are actively 'changing the game'? It all boils down to the corporate mindset versus the activist mindset.
When questioned about their environmental, social, and governance (ESG) activities, many organizations respond with a casual acknowledgment of compliance. "We're doing what must be done," they say, "going as far as necessary due to regulations or stakeholder pressure. We're playing the game."
But here's the twist: You need an activist mindset to deliver true social value. It's about looking beyond compliance and addressing issues that your business is intrinsically tied to—questions that directly impact your business and are impacted by it. So, you need to consider transitioning from merely playing the game to changing the game!
Whether it's production, carbon emissions, water, living wages, or any other challenge, the key is to ask yourself, "What can we do in our business that positively steps into the future and makes a meaningful difference?"
Consider Apple's approach to aluminum in their laptops or Philips's reimagining lighting as a service. These companies didn't just comply; they reinvented, shifted their business models, and stepped into a different plane. They were not merely playing; they were changing the game.
Defensive positions no longer lead to victory. Instead, you ask: "What's needed here?" and boldly step toward it. That's the heart of the activist mindset, a mindset that seeks to make a positive impact while advancing the business.
Let's challenge the status quo, reexamine your ways of operating, and consider, "What would make a difference?"
Shifting from playing to changing is not just a mindset shift; it's a call to action. Lead the game, embrace change, and unlock the full potential of your business in this ever-changing environment.
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