This list of 12 ways in which members of an organization can ultimately be responsible for the organization’s demise was originally posted by C.A. Scott in the November 1925 Oracle of the Omega Psi Phi fraternity. A century later, this list about how to kill any organization is still true and prevalent within many of the organizations in which we all swear our unending love and devotion.
Are you guilty of any of these?
- Don’t come to meetings.
- If you do attend, find fault with the work of the officers and other members.
- Never accept an office, it is easier to criticize than to do things.
- Get sore if you are not appointed on committees; if you are appointed, don’t attend committee meetings.
- If afforded an opportunity to express your opinion on an important matter, have nothing to say. After the meeting, tell everyone what ought to have been done.
- Do nothing if you can avoid it. Tell them that you are very busy. When other men roll up their sleeves and unselfishly put things over, howl that the organization is run by a clique.
- Hold back on your dues as long as possible, and finally announce that you don’t consider yourself a member any longer.
- If you hear someone finding fault with the organization, put in your kick also – join the anvil chorus.
- When a banquet is given, tell everybody money is being wasted on blow-outs that make a big noise and accomplish nothing.
- When no banquets are given, say that the organization is dead.
- If asked to sit at the speaker’s table, modestly refuse.
- If you are not asked, resign from the organization.
Reflect on these timeless insights and consider the impact of your actions within your organization. Are you unintentionally contributing to its demise? As we navigate the delicate balance of commitment and constructive engagement, let’s strive to build, support, and elevate our organizations. Recognize the signs, make positive choices, and be a catalyst for growth rather than stagnation. Your commitment and constructive involvement can shape a thriving and resilient community for years to come.
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