When the Wind Shifts, Successful Teams Adjust
I love sailing on San Francisco Bay. I’m a recreational sailor. In fact, I admit that I am a fair-weather sailor. And, sometimes everything comes together — a steady breeze, sunshine and just enough wind to move the boat swiftly without making us work too hard. Those days are unforgettable, and they are the exception.
Most days bring different conditions. The wind may be light, gusty, or constantly shifting. Fog rolls in. The tide changes. The weather has its own agenda. Every trip is different. The experienced sailors who treat me to a sail never spend time wishing for a better forecast. They read the conditions, adjust the sails and keep us moving for the best day possible.
Construction projects are no different. Schedules shift. Materials arrive late. Stakeholders disagree. Weather interrupts the plan. New information changes old assumptions. Teams that wait for perfect conditions never leave the dock. Teams that succeed learn to work with the conditions they have, adapt as they go, and keep making progress.
Here are six habits that help.
Accept. Focus on what you can control. Every project includes variables beyond your influence. Invest energy where it can make a difference, take action and build momentum.
Assess. Step back and read the conditions before making your move. Gather the facts available, understand what the situation requires and make the best decision you can. As new information emerges, refine your approach.
Align. Put the team’s collective experience to work. One person may spot a risk while another sees an opportunity. Diverse perspectives lead to stronger decisions, better solutions and greater commitment to the path forward.
Act. Make the best decision you can with the information available, then move forward with confidence. Progress comes from thoughtful action, continuous learning, and steady momentum.
Adjust. Stay flexible as conditions change. Every project brings a few surprises. Treat them as new information, flex your approach, and stay committed to the goal.
Advance. Build on every experience. Celebrate progress, learn from every challenge, and carry those lessons into the next decision. Every adjustment makes the team stronger and better prepared for whatever comes next.
The perfect wind is a gift, but it is never a requirement for a great voyage. The same is true on construction projects. The teams that consistently succeed are the ones that read the conditions, adjust together and keep moving toward their destination—regardless of the forecast.
~ Cinda
Cinda Bond, MIPI, has been an OrgMetrics partnering facilitator for more than 10 years. She has facilitated more than 500 sessions for teams throughout the country. She also collaborates with engineering and construction teams to develop large documents containing hundreds of pages for construction contracts and proposals.
For more information please contact Cinda Bond, CindaBond@Orgmet.com / (925)640-9007 (cell), or OrgMetrics RobReaugh@Orgmet.com / (925)449-8300