Ep. 59 Yuji Yamada on Reinventing Organisations through a Japanese lens
Mar 1, 2021
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Yuji Yamada, expert in organisational transformation explores Japanese vs Western lenses. Topics include teal organisations, Jinen management, East Asian advantages in new ways of working, and cultural paradigms of interconnectedness.
Japanese organizations leverage ancient wisdom for new ways of working based on 'Jinen management'.
Cultural background influences innovative work models and leadership evolution in Japan.
Balance between personal passion and collective goals leads to organic growth and harmony within organizations.
Integrating diverse passions and cultural values enhances sustainability and fosters authentic organizational evolution.
Deep dives
Japanese Perspective on New Ways of Working Movement
In Japan, the new ways of working movement gained momentum after the release of 'Reinventing Organizations' by Frederick Laloux in 2018. This book introduced the concept of teal organizations and sparked discussions and study groups in Japan. The visit of Frederick Laloux in 2019 further strengthened the community and connected different groups working towards similar goals.
Cultural Influence on Work Styles
Yuji Yamada emphasizes the importance of starting new ways of working based on cultural backgrounds and paradigms. He highlights the significance of understanding Japan's unique culture and worldview when developing innovative work models. Yuji's concept of G-N management, rooted in ancient Japanese culture, aligns with the ecosystem mindset described in 'Reinventing Organizations'.
Leadership Evolution in Japan
Yuji shares his transition from the IT startup world to embracing more heartful working styles. He discusses the evolution of leadership in Japan, emphasizing the need for a holistic approach that considers cultural nuances and individual passions. Yuji advocates for finding one's own path within the context of cultural wisdom.
Cultural Differences and Organizational Challenges
The conversation delves into the cultural differences between Japan and the West, particularly in work philosophies and paradigms. Yuji explores how Japanese society's collective mindset and emphasis on interconnectedness influence new ways of working. He navigates the challenges of language limitations in translating management concepts within Japanese culture.
Promoting Individual Passion in Work
Yuji encourages individuals to follow their passion and enthusiasm when shaping work environments. He stresses the importance of aligning individual drives with collective goals, fostering a balance between personal initiative and community cohesion. By starting from personal passions, organizations can achieve organic growth and harmony.
Balancing Autonomy and Common Goals
In the context of finding a cultural approach to teal organizations, Yuji underscores the balance between personal autonomy and shared objectives. He articulates that authentic leadership emerges from individuals' intrinsic motivations, contributing to a harmonious collective ecosystem. Yuji's insights challenge conventional hierarchical structures by advocating for a more organic and interlinked organizational model.
Embracing Diversity of Passion and Contribution
Yuji emphasizes the diversity of passions and contributions within organizations as essential elements for sustainability and growth. He highlights the symbiotic relationship between individual drive and communal well-being, mirroring the interconnectedness found in nature. By nurturing diverse passions and integrating them into a unified vision, organizations can evolve authentically and harmoniously.
Discovering Organizational Wisdom in Cultural Roots
Yuji suggests introspection into cultural roots and traditions to uncover organizational wisdom unique to each culture. He advocates for a deeper exploration of the intrinsic cultural values and perspectives that shape work dynamics. By delving into cultural wisdom, organizations can identify principles that align with their core beliefs, fostering a more authentic and culturally resonant work environment.
Yuji Yamada is the founder of EnFlow and is interested in exploring the differences between approaching organisational transformation from a ‘Western lens’ and a Japanese lens. We talk about teal organisations from Frederic Laloux’s book ‘Reinventing Organisations’ (which has sold 100,000 copies in Japan) and Yuji’s homegrown concept of ‘Jinen management’. Could East Asian organisations be at an advantage in developing new ways of working by drawing on their ancient wisdom and inherent cultural paradigms of interconnectedness?
