Organizations don't intentionally drive into disarray or failure. Instead, they find themselves there after following tried and true practices, processes, and assumptions initially developed to bring about success. However, just like my inattention to my daily diet, things can get out of whack, and painful stones develop, indicating a problem. There is an immense opportunity for growth and change when asking questions and then patiently listening to all the answers.

Yesterday's best practices have become today's quicksand. The ambition to ask hard questions pinches, but it is less painful than neglecting to address the issues and remaining mired in the ineffective practices of today.