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Key Elements in Developing the Next Generation: Independence & Interdependence
March 25, 2008
The family unit has been under attack for several decades now with devastating effects. When the family disintegrates, the next generation suffers and potentially the long term continuity of success in the family business.
Just this past week I was with a blended family whose situation is representative of this fact. This family consisted of two kids from the dad’s previous marriage, three kids from the mom’s previous marriage, and one child from the mom and dad. Three of the six children are in the family’s business and three are not. Naturally, the mom and dad each favor their own children in the business, irrespective of their performance. Consequently, the parents’ behavior is promoting sibling rivalry and is generating a huge lack of respect by senior management and employees, damaging the succession planning process. The three children have clearly been enabled beyond their abilities and have developed a dependence on the parents.
If you find yourself in a similar situation, first, to alter a Bill Clinton quote, “it’s the economy, stupid”, realize that “it’s the character, stupid.” It is the parents’ responsibility to develop character in the next generation. Most entrepreneurial business owners all too willingly download this all-important task onto someone else, or expect that character in their kids will develop by default.
There are several key elements in the development of the next generation. Two are independence and interdependence. Independence is foundational to being able to function interdependently.
When evaluating the next generation on these two points, ask:
- Are my children developing true and healthy independence?
- Do they have a deep belief that they have what it takes?
- Are my children fulfilling my dreams or am I supporting them in living out theirs?
- Are my children comfortable making mistakes as part of their learning? Or are they afraid?
- What kind of a friend is my child to others? Do they have strong relationships with others?
- Are my children friends with each other? Are their disagreements productive?
- Do they recognize their shortcomings and develop relationships with others who have complementary skill sets? Or do they feel threatened by others who are strong where they are weak?
The answers to these questions will give you a starting point to evaluating how the next generation is doing with regard to independence and interdependence. They will also provide a reference point for creating a plan of action for the development of these character traits in the next generation.
Posted by Jeff Faulkner on March 25, 2008 | Comments (0)
