Belonging is more than just a buzzword; it is the lifeblood that courses through the veins of a thriving organization. Every organization, much like a body, needs people that are just there to do the work, provide energy to their designated areas, step up in times of need but know their role and respect it, are connectors, go above and beyond, etc.

I recently had a candid conversation with a leader that is part of a culture change project about the major issue impacting turnaround within the organization.

After reviewing the facts, they said: "You know, I think the community does not want this. I've been doing everything in my power to support and empower them but I also still have to do my job. At every turn, they are nasty and toxic. They just don't want things to get better! I mean, don’t they see the vision? They all agreed they were ready!"

The truth is, they were right. All of the pieces were in place, but the community was not ready. Indeed, they were actively pushing against moving forward. For whatever reason, the collaborative vision that was established at the beginning of the project had left a bitter taste in their mouths, and hollow pit in their stomachs.