But the danger in being so passionate about something is that we are unable to see the good in something else; when our eyes, ears and hearts are closed to another way because we believe so strongly that our own experience is right.

This week, I have been challenged to see the goodness in large organisations, such as their systems and processes that result in consistency and order – templates, rules, and guidelines so that staff know what to do and when. This allows the organisation to grow and to function optimally at scale. It also creates an ideal organisation for people who thrive in order and love to work with clear instructions knowing there will be few, unknowns or curve balls.

For most entrepreneurs, though, this order is akin to a nightmare. Start-ups are exciting precisely because of disorder and chaos. It is out of disorder and a searching for the new that innovation arises. It is the lack of order that allows rapid change, innovation and the creation of new boundaries. That is the excitement that drives us.

But this lack of systems and processes is often what trips small business up. It can result in uneven quality, inefficiencies and staff who are unprepared or unsupported in performing the task at hand. As the organisation grows, staff may yearn for order and structure. “Tell me what to do, I don’t understand” may become a common refrain.

So, if the small business is to grow, order must replace chaos. Systems and processes, formal job descriptions, contracts, staff growth paths, disciplinary measures and all the litany of structures are essential.

The art is to create orderly growth that leaves a window for individual expression, the space and time to experiment so each staff member can express their individual talent.

This week, I challenge all of us to seek new ways to do things from businesses that are not our own, because sometimes bigger really is better.

Have a fabulous week!

Kind regards,

Catherine