Called To InfluenceSample

What is Culture?

What do we mean by Culture? Simply put, it’s the way we do things around here, which has been developed and learnt over time. Culture determines what is acceptable or unacceptable, important or unimportant, right or wrong, workable or unworkable. It encompasses all learned and shared, explicit or tacit assumptions, beliefs, knowledge, norms, and values, as well as attitudes, behaviour, dress, and language. Every group or organisation has a culture. Define it or it will define you!  

Culture is like soil; it helps or hinders growth, depending on its quality. An experienced gardener sets the boundary and removes everything harmful to growth. Seeds are then planted and encouraged to grow through watering and feeding, along with removing any weeds that might choke the seedlings as they mature.

In the same way, you can actively seek to cultivate the Culture of Heaven around you in your workplace, eradicating negative values, attitudes and behaviours and sowing positive, Godly ones. By intentionally watering and feeding (encouraging) new growth and challenging unwanted behaviours, a new culture becomes ‘the new way of doing things around here’.

I heard a great story from a young man who recognised he carried Kingdom authority to shift the atmosphere in his office, which up until then had been unpleasant due to gossip, slander and people not caring for one another. He began to look for small ways to introduce honour and respect, taking in cakes, making drinks, and intentionally helping colleagues and demonstrating kindness. Gradually others began to follow his lead and the culture started to shift for the better. His boss noticed the difference he had made and thanked him. I love this story because it proves how one team member can lead by example and make a positive difference.

What steps can you take to change the negative culture where you work?