Challenge the Ordinary

Chapter ThreeCulture Informs Behavior

We use the word “culture” fairly arbitrarily, citing it to explain why things don’t change, won’t change, or can’t change. We talk about the culture of a society or country, school cultures, business cultures, culture clashes, and emerging cultures. A powerful force, culture anchors strategy and creates the environment where the best people can do their best work. It’s that subtle yet powerful driver that leaders strive—often futilely—to influence. Leaders who aspire to challenge the ordinary realize they need to pay more attention to the culture they help create so they can understand it, guide it, and tie it to their strategies for growth.

What Do We Mean by “Culture”?

Legends tend to have differing adaptations; ...