Build the Bridge as You Walk on It

This phrase from Robert Quinn – “build the bridge as you walk on it” – is one of my favorites. It reminds leaders that we must not allow ourselves to be paralyzed because we’re waiting to get all the facts. We must be willing to step out and take risks based on incomplete information and with no guarantee of success. The full quote from Quinn’s book Deep Change is:

When we have a vision, it does not necessarily mean that we have a plan. We may know where we want to be, but we will seldom know the actual steps we must take to get there. We must trust in ourselves to learn the way, to build the bridge as we walk on it.

The longer quote highlights a critical part of this kind of bridge building. We may not have a plan, but we do know where we are trying to go. The overall direction is set – it’s just not completely clear what specific steps are needed to get there. This is a sharp contrast with the “moving target” style of leadership. In this model, lots of bridges get started, but they are rarely (if ever) completed. There may be lots of activity, but sustained results are lacking. Quinn highlights one other important element – learning. Learning is essential in a dynamic leadership context. It allows us to give energy and resources to the things that are working, and redirect away from those that aren’t. It enables us to build a sturdier bridge. So here’s my challenge for you and your leadership team. In your next meeting or retreat, discuss Quinn’s quote. Ask yourselves, “Is the vision clear? Do we know where we’re trying to go? Or are we guilty of starting too many bridges?” Then ask about your approach to bridge-building: “Are we willing to take some risks? Are we learning as we go and applying that learning to our efforts?” It’s easy to receive my blogs by email. Just sign-up on Feedburner by clicking here.]]>