I really dig this twist on the existing maxim from Elizabeth Ayer:
Here are 4 reasons that radiating intent is better than begging forgiveness:
- Radiating intent gives a chance for someone to stop you before you do a thing, in case it’s truly harmful
- Radiating intent gives people who have information, or want to help, an opening to participate
- Radiating intent leaves better evidence of your good will
- Radiating intent shows others that adventurous behavior is acceptable in the org.
Her note on inclusivity is a good reminder for anyone dispensing advice to others:
I also don’t believe that “ask forgiveness” is inclusive advice. If you are from a group who has historically not been granted forgiveness, how is that going to land? Or if you’re in a group with cultural baggage around subversive behavior?
I was pleasantly surprised-not-surprised to see that Elizabeth works at 18F where they continue doing really important work building inclusive government services.