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Writer's pictureDavid Kolb

Quick Tip 18 - The "Gardeners Not Mechanics" Approach: Cultivating Lasting Change

Updated: Oct 29, 2023


A well-lit office scene depicting a team of gardeners collaborating on plans, representing the gardening mindset philosophy for organizational change. Captured in an optimistic, cinematic Americana style with soft yellow and beige lighting.
Image : David Kolb

At some point in our careers, we've all felt the pressure of a looming transformation – the urge to control, predict, and mechanise processes for desired outcomes. However, Gary Lloyd's enlightening book, "Gardeners Not Mechanics", introduces a paradigm shift: viewing modern organisations more like ecosystems than machines.


💡 Soil Preparation: Recognise the organisation's culture. Map stakeholders, crystallise the vision, and purposefully infuse every layer.


💡 Purposeful Planting: Align changes with a shared vision, ensuring clarity in roles and direction.


💡 Growth Pruning: Routinely evaluate and adjust, keeping the most effective strategies in focus.


💡 Relationship Nurturing: Constantly care for and communicate to ensure change flourishes.


💡 Results Harvest: Celebrate the wins and learn from the challenges. Value every contribution.


💡 The "Gardeners Not Mechanics" philosophy offers a practical approach to embracing unpredictability and fostering lasting change.


Tried this gardening mindset at work? Share your insights!


Learn more on 'Gardeners Not Mechanics' here.


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