Who will Bell the Cat?
October 5th, 2011 § Leave a Comment
An ancient story tells the tale of a group of mice tormented by a marauding cat. The mice meet and after much discussion agree that they need to find a way of getting warning of the cat’s approach. Putting a bell on the cat is the brilliant suggestion from one mouse. Then everyone can hear of the cat’s approach.
Things become trickier when a volunteer is asked for. Mice look down, avert their gaze. Everyone agrees it’s a great idea but none is brave enough to “bell the cat”.
How does this fit with what we do in organisations? Well we need to evaluate our plans for practicality. A great idea that we can’t make happen is much less valuable. And we need to support and appreciate those who take on the impossibly difficult role of belling the cat.
(With thanks to PY for the reminder on this)
Take care
Have a good week
Steve
