Creating Intentional Culture

Creating a culture takes time and intention. It takes time to have a “come as you are” perspective when consulting with clinicians and therapists—in any practice, really. Striving to thrive in the culture and in business takes effort and dedication. We are committed to helping you get there. First, start with your why. Here is a video from Simon Sinek, bestselling author of the book “Start with Why.” We have several people who know what we do, but if you inspire people with why they do something, it has the sticky factor.  Sinek presents this simple concept in a very crucial way:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u4ZoJKF_VuA 

Think about how you want people to feel in your presence. How do you create a sense of empowerment and connection with patients or consultees? This is about creating a niche and intentional environment that fosters growth. In the book Blue Ocean Strategy (https://www.blueoceanstrategy.com/books/), we discuss building a culture that doesn’t compete but supports new and thriving products and creates new markets. Culture is so important to this, and we encourage you to think intentionally about the relationships and dynamics between cultures as you build your practice and business.

Creating a supportive and empowering culture within any practice, especially in therapeutic settings, is essential for fostering growth and collaboration. Here are some key insights on how to cultivate such an environment.

The third and final nugget I use to reference these concepts is the book “Making a Difference” by Captain Chesley B. "Sully" Sullenberger delves into the essence of leadership in his book Making a Difference.  In my college business courses, I found this to be one of the most inspirational tenets of leadership.  It is written by this heroic pilot who safely landed US Airways Flight 1549 in the Hudson River.  One of the most interesting experiences is that Sully engages in inspiring dialogues and interviews  with accomplished leaders from diverse fields, including technology, medicine, education, sports, philanthropy, finance, law, and the military. Through these conversations, he explores the qualities that define true leadership, such as courage, resilience, and the ability to inspire others. Sully emphasizes the importance of making a positive impact and leading with purpose, illustrating how effective leadership can transform lives and communities. This book serves as both a tribute to those who lead with integrity and a guide for anyone aspiring to make a difference in their own sphere of influence.  

When we build culture it is important to have an innate sense of leadership within and to have a community that will follow you.  This is closely connected with Sinek’s, “Start with Why” concept.  

Start with Your Why

Understanding your core purpose is crucial. Simon Sinek's concept of "Start with Why" emphasizes the importance of knowing the underlying motivations behind your actions. This clarity helps in shaping the culture you want to create, ensuring that it aligns with your values and mission.

Empowerment Through Non-Criticism

To foster a sense of empowerment, it's vital to allow individuals to arrive at their own conclusions rather than imposing your views. This approach not only respects their autonomy but also encourages personal growth. Providing feedback should be constructive and supportive, helping others to explore their thoughts and ideas within a framework of established protocols.

Cultural Competence

Incorporating cultural competence into your practice is essential for effective therapeutic interventions. This involves understanding and respecting the diverse backgrounds of clients, which can significantly enhance the therapeutic alliance and improve outcomes. By being mindful of cultural factors, practitioners can create a more inclusive environment that acknowledges and values differences.

Leadership: 

Creating New Markets with Blue Ocean Strategy

The principles outlined in "Blue Ocean Strategy" can be instrumental in building a culture that not only competes but also supports innovation and the development of new markets. This strategy encourages organizations to focus on creating value in ways that are distinct from competitors, fostering a culture of collaboration and creativity.

Intentional Relationship Building

As you build your practice, think intentionally about the relationships and dynamics between different cultures. This involves recognizing the unique contributions of each culture and how they can enhance the overall practice environment. By prioritizing these relationships, you can create a thriving culture that supports both personal and professional growth.

In summary, cultivating a thriving culture in your practice requires a commitment to understanding your purpose, empowering others, embracing cultural competence, and fostering intentional relationships. By focusing on these areas, you can create an environment where everyone feels valued and supported.  Our goal is simple: Thriving Patients, Thriving Practices.