I once heard a physician describe the culture of his award winning hospital in this way. He said, “Just as our body needs red blood cells to live and grow, we also need white blood cells. Red blood cells equate to our income and profitability. But white blood cells equate to our patient care and superior performance in all areas.”
What the doctor described was really a Conscious Culture — one that fosters continued learning, personal and professional growth and the opportunity for people to apply their skills and knowledge in ways that benefit their customers and, in turn, the company. As a result profits are realized.
When I talk to companies and organizations about creating a Conscious Culture, I emphasize the Four Ps. They are your Principles, People, Processes and Performance. Regardless of the type of business or organization you operate, these four areas influence your values, attitudes and behaviors in the workplace.
But, just like the human body, we need a balance between our red and white blood cells. And, so does your company. You need a balance between your business operations, customer relations and profit strategies. We refer to these three areas as your Business Success Triad. It’s a very delicate balance because each of the three legs of your Business Success Triad constantly compete for resources and money. Just as our body competes for nourishment, recreation, mental and physical stimulation and rest.
The Course of 10,000 Days believes that conscious leaders value their people because they understand people are their greatest asset. When leaders create a conscious culture that goes beyond the profit motive and fosters an environment that nurtures their people and treats each and every customer with dignity and respect, new customers will seek you out and your profits will grow.
