by Lorin Walker, MOB, PhD

The boss is 80% of the job. She or he sets the tone, the climate, the “how-fun-and-productive-it-is-to-work-here” index.

I am reminded to trust the process, to trust the good intentions, the weight of the preparation and the desire to succeed of the people who are on most teams.

To expect breakthroughs and one might say “miracles”. To know that at some point positive things are liable to happen, so long as people hang in there, so long as they continue the effort and want things to succeed.

Of the power of caring, of the boss caring “to get it right”, and of people, in the end, knowing that the team members (including the boss) care about others on the team, despite what might be called weaknesses.

I am reminded that sometimes months and months of nudging and preparation and coaching are needed before we are able to await the result in peace.

That declarations of hope, of expectations for positive outcomes, if heartfelt, even in the face of little or no evidence, can often carry the day.

I am reminded of all these things because of something that occurred within the last 90 days in my consulting work, an all-stars-aligned team alignment session that could not have gone any better, despite many challenges, and that will always be a highlight in my life.

And, as I look over my shoulder to the right, on top of my bookshelf, I see the figurine of a bear, a recent gift, small black eyes staring at me, and I am at the same time reminded of my consultant cautionary motto—“Some days you eats the bear, and some days the bear eats you!” That day, we all ate the bear. Delicious!