Given how Sanchez frames our interconnectedness with nature, culture is the ecosystem in which people live and work. Think of it as the type of water in which fish live. Is the pH balanced? Is the salinity appropriate? Is the temperature optimal? Is there enough nourishment? Is there enough space to exist and do your work?

Just as these factors determine the health and survival of aquatic life, the culture of an organization shapes the well-being, performance, and growth of its people.

Culture is not just a set of norms or policies; it is the environment where collective activities, shared identities, and values come together. It’s the space where norms are developed and practiced, fostering a sense of connection. Culture can encourage individuals to engage with one another and collaborate. In this space, people are more than just workers or members; they are part of something larger, working together toward a common purpose.

Just as the health of the water impacts the fish, the health of the work culture influences the people within it. A thriving culture creates an atmosphere where individuals feel supported, valued, and empowered to contribute. This, in turn, leads to the building of a strong social fabric within a group or geographic area, where mutual respect is the foundation. In essence, culture is the key element that unites people, helping them come together and form a cohesive, productive, and thriving community.

Learn how to Build a Foundation for Success.