Potted plants and hermit crabs

When a potted plant grows too big for its container, its roots go looking for more room but end up winding in circles. This stunts the plant’s health and growth, leading to a condition known as being “pot bound.” The only way to save a pot bound plant is for someone to transfer it into a larger pot.

In contrast, hermit crabs possess the freedom to adapt. As they outgrow their shells, they seek out larger ones. When a larger shell is found, a queue forms behind it, with crabs arranging themselves by size. The largest crab moves into the new shell, followed by the others in succession, each taking a progressively larger shell as they become available.

What kind of environment are you creating on your team?

Are you fostering an environment where individuals are like potted plants, confined and lacking growth opportunities?

Or are you creating a culture of hermit crabs, promoting autonomy and continuous growth?