Fantasy and Tales of Wonder

Recently, I’ve watched a lot of fantasy on television. Penelope (compare prices), was born with a pig’s snout instead of a nose, conquered the curse that malformed her, and ended up with the young man who loved her when she had the pig’s snout. She prevailed over her problem.

In Stardust (compare prices), Tristan Thorn crosses into Stormhold to find a star to bring to the woman whom he thinks he loves. Turns out, she is a shallow person, but the woman who is the star, Yvaine, is his true love. He triumphs over the wicked witches who need the heart of the star to transform themselves into youthful beauties, and several other challenges.

It’s a bonus that he saves his mother from a curse that has bound her for many years and inherits the throne because the other claimants kill each other. (Neil Gaiman is a delightful adult author, too. His novel, Anansi Boys (compare prices), was one of the most perfect fiction books I have ever read.)

Catch the themes here? After long journeys, many adventures, and overcoming fierce opponents, the hero and heroine prevail, fall in love, and live happily ever after. Is it any wonder that I love fantasy and science fiction?

Wish life were this easy at work. Employees solve problems, improve processes, and fight enemies that entail all aspects of work from their own personal bad habits to legitimate competitors who might derail progress. Does the hero or heroine always win?

Not necessarily, although at our company, a number of our young employees are falling in love and getting married. But, happy ever after is not necessarily the watchword for your employees or your company. You need more than luck and stardust.

You need a strategic framework and goals so all employees are clear about what is expected from them. You need managers who guide wisely and empower staff to make decisions. You need communication up and down the organization and data to tell you how your processes are performing. You need developmental opportunities so your employees continue to grow professionally and contribute at the top of their game. Finally, you need a reward system that helps your achievers and contributors feel recognized for their contributions.

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