Finding Our True North: Lessons from a Board Retreat

Last week, I headed to Minneapolis for the Organization Development Network Board's retreat. As I was making my way to the retreat, I was deep in the thick of planning for our big summit, trying to make sure we'd hit our numbers and make everything a success. As the chair of the summit and a board member, it felt like a lot was riding on my shoulders. I was at our board retreat, surrounded by sunny and snow-covered peaceful space, far from the daily grind, yet my mind was racing with plans and figures.

A New Perspective on Value

The retreat took a transformative turn with an eye-opening session on Axiology, led by Peter and Eddy. Axiology, the study of value, was presented not just as a philosophical concept but as a practical framework for evaluating our actions and their impact. They broke down the hierarchy of values into three distinct categories: intrinsic, extrinsic, and systemic.

• Intrinsic Value: This is considered the highest form of value, rooted in things that are valuable in and of themselves. It could be joy, love, connection, etc. For individuals and organizations, it translates to actions and goals that are pursued for the fulfillment and the greater good they bring, rather than for any external reward.
• Extrinsic Value: Extrinsic values are tied to the tangible outcomes or benefits that actions or objects bring about. In the context of our work, this could relate to the revenue targets, registration numbers, and other measurable indicators of success.
• Systemic Value: Systemic values concern the broader systems and structures within which we operate. They reflect the rules, norms, and principles that guide our actions on a larger scale, influencing how we align our efforts with societal, organizational, or environmental standards.

The session was a revelation, compelling me to reconsider our goals beyond the immediacy of quantifiable success. It underscored the importance of aligning our work with intrinsic values, suggesting that a closer connection to these values could enhance the overall impact and satisfaction derived from our endeavors.

One key inquiry that I found powerful was this:

What choice can I make and what actions can I take at the moment, to create the greatest net value?

If our minds and hearts focus on creating the greatest net value, we are getting closer to the highest value that will drive the impact. This got all board members to think through how we might pursue the greatest net value.?

Seeing the Bigger Picture

As we explored the relationship of values collectively, we started envisioning the potential purpose we wanted to create for our community. Then, David Cooperider, who is another board member, shared his vision and purpose for joining the board.

David's vision of full-spectrum flourishing further expanded this newfound perspective. He introduced a holistic view of flourishing that extends beyond human achievement to include the well-being of nature, businesses, economies, and entire communities. His insights highlighted the interconnectedness of all aspects of life and the potential for the OD field to catalyze a comprehensive transformation toward sustainable flourishing.

This broader understanding of flourishing resonated with me, challenging my previous notions of flourishing and inspiring a vision of interconnected growth and prosperity. It became clear that our work could have a profound impact not only on organizational success but also on fostering a harmonious balance between human aspirations and the health of our planet.

A Nudge Towards Reflection

So, here's what I'm sitting with, and what I hope you might think about too:

1. Reflect on Your Highest Value: Amidst the bustle of objectives and outcomes, pause to consider the intrinsic value of your work. What deeper purpose motivates your actions? How can this purpose guide you toward more meaningful and fulfilling achievements?
2. Expand Your Vision: Look beyond the immediate scope of personal or organizational gains. Contemplate the wider impact of your efforts on society and the natural environment. How can your actions contribute to a broader narrative of full-spectrum flourishing?

Embracing Our Intrinsic Purpose

The board retreat served as a reminder of the importance of aligning our endeavors with our deepest values. As we strive to meet our goals and navigate the complexities of our roles, let's not simply get caught up in doing and achieving but ensure we connect with our highest purpose and expression of our purpose.

That way, we can expand our impact to foster an environment where every aspect of life can flourish, including yourself. Together, we can embrace our intrinsic purpose, guiding our actions towards a future where full-spectrum flourishing is not just a vision but a reality.

Remember:

“What choice can I make and actions can I take in the moment, to create the greatest net value?”