If everything seems under control, you're not going fast enough.
That is an actual slide from one of my onboarding presentations, quoting the former racing driver Mario Andretti. I think it applies perfectly to business today.
In a world where agility is no longer a choice but a necessity, moving at speed can feel uncomfortable. Companies that prioritise control over agility risk missing out on innovation. Agility means empowering teams to make quick decisions, embracing calculated risks, and being comfortable with imperfection. I know it's hard, but it's often in that discomfort where growth happens.
Agility is not about chaos but about strategic velocity. The most successful companies use speed to learn and iterate quickly, creating momentum that drives innovation. To thrive, businesses must empower their teams, encourage an iterative mindset, and be flexible enough to pivot when the market or customer needs change.
Discomfort is a sign that you're pushing boundaries — and as Andretti suggests, if everything feels too comfortable, it might be time to speed up.
I know friends who work at banks, the NHS and elsewhere will say this doesn't apply to them. Maybe not yet. But what about everyone else? Who is uncomfortable with their speed?
First posted on LinkedIn, Mon 28 October 2024. · All Friday Thoughts