People were attending meetings to prepare for other meetings. Managers were producing reports that few people used. Decisions that should have taken minutes were taking days because individuals were seeking reassurance rather than accountability. Teams were spending increasing amounts of time managing communication about work rather than completing the work itself.

Over the following twelve months, a series of relatively simple but deliberate changes were introduced. Leadership communication became more consistent. Managers received additional support and development. Career pathways were clarified. Team objectives were aligned to business objectives and greater emphasis was placed on recognising contribution and creating opportunities for people to grow.

"I thought I needed to change businesses. It turns out I just needed to change the way this one worked."

It is a situation we encounter more often than many people realise. Business owners frequently focus on growth, profit and performance, whilst paying little attention to the quality of their own experience. Yet the two are often closely connected.

Within a short period of time, the effect was noticeable. Projects moved more quickly, managers reported greater confidence and directors found themselves spending more time focusing on customers, growth & strategy rather than navigating internal complexity.

You can spend hours reading the water, choosing the fly, watching the conditions and convincing yourself you've worked it all out, only to discover that the fish have other ideas.

There are no racing cars hurtling into corners. No podium celebrations. No dramatic moments. In fact, if you didn't know where it was taken, you might wonder what all the fuss was about.

I was making assumptions about people.

The bloke in the expensive suit was obviously successful.

The woman walking quickly whilst juggling two phones was clearly important.

The harbour was full of boats, most of them looking much as you'd expect. Some new, some old, some clearly loved more than others.