Ubuntu (Zulu pronunciation: [ùɓúntʼù]) is a Nguni Bantu term meaning “humanity”. It is often translated as “I am because we are,” or “humanity towards others”, but is often used in a more philosophical sense to mean “the belief in a universal bond of sharing that connects all humanity”.
High performing teams, organisations and cultures fascinate me. Why do certain groups seem to transcend expectation and possibility whilst others self-destruct and die?
Is it the leadership? Is it a lack of direction? A fight for power or a lack of culture, standards and work ethic?
The above certainly help and hinder, but the true reason I believe is fulfillment. Being a part of something bigger than yourself.
True high performing groups and individuals feel a sense of fulfillment unparalleled amongst the masses. A sense of purpose, a true north, and a goal external to themselves which encompasses their whole tribe, team or organisation.
Ubuntu is something our communities should strive to epitomise. ‘I am because we are’ None of what we do as individuals would be possible if it were not for our support networks and the structure of our society. The self made man is a myth. We live in the best time in human history and (in my opinion) the best place in the world.
Let’s start acting like it.
Lachie
