I remember the cubicle. Not fondly but a definite long-term memory. What I most remember about it and its cubicle surroundings was the stillness. There was no energy, no life, no passion. Proof of this office disfunction was the day I received an e-mail from a neighbor who shared one of my cubicle walls. Talk about an environment that kills human contact.
But this isn't really about the cubicle, it's about you and me and what we bring to the table.
You see, I decided several years ago that even a floor of cubicles can produce creativity, passion and interactivity. Because of the boxes, getting involved takes greater effort but likely produces greater effects because any improvement within that kind of dismal environment is a great improvement.
So I ask myself, why do we allow ourselves and others to show up in body but not in mind and spirit? We really can't blame manufactured office space. The space just sits their stupidly. Why do we do the same?
How much better would be our work lives and our business if we awoke every morning and told ourselves that today I will make a difference. I will touch someone with a smile or a good morning. I will challenge the status quo. I will test an assumption. I will produce a new idea. I will commit 100% to passion and involvement.
Can you imagine that kind of culture?
For a different take on the subject, check out The unlimited power of enthusiasm on Seth Godin's blog.
