How to Recognize Bad Intentions

Issue 176, September 5, 2024

They say the road to hell is paved with good intentions. So, is the road to paradise paved by bad intentions? As absurd as that may sound, being aware of any bad intentions (as opposed to assuming good intentions) may pave a better way forward. To be forewarned is to be forearmed, emotionally, psychologically and in the case of business, strategically.

Organizations are complex interconnecting systems. The human system within an organization remains the most influential in achieving change and transformation. We define the human system as the “workers” and “leaders” inside the organization, as well as those who sit on the edge of the organization as partners, providers and supporters. Each individual in the system has a role to play, motivations (good and/or bad) and intentions (good and/or bad).

Good Intentions

But first a word about the ambiguity of good intentions. Good intentions are generally understood as holding optimistic thoughts that everything comes…