Tune in every week for a roundup of hand-picked brand lessons, tips and advice that can be applied to your brand.
Four Lessons for Business from Gross National Happiness
In 2011 the United Nations General Assembly passed a resolution calling on all its member countries to look beyond economic performance as a driver of public policy, turning instead to something more intangible: happiness. At the time, it must have seemed novel. Since the Gross Domestic Product was introduced in 1934 by economist Simon Kuznets, the GDP – not happiness – has been the bellwether for politicians, economists and news anchors alike to predict a country’s success or failure, along with unemployment and inflation.
Countries measure GDP, businesses measure profit. This is how we determine success. Right? Read More >
How to Define Your Purpose Footprint
A furniture store opened in 1943 with no product delivery, no sales people, an impossibly labyrinthian store design, and assembly required on virtually everything it sells. Could this business concept possibly succeed in 2015? Yes, and it can thrive. IKEA has continued to do well across borders and through decades with this unique business model. How? It has to do with clarity of purpose and a laser-like focus on fulfilling that purpose in responsible ways. Read More >
Malden Mills: When Purpose Isn’t Enough
The Malden Mills textile mill was founded in Lawrence, Massachusetts in 1909, weaving wool knits to outfit American soldiers through two world wars. In 1981 they created PolarTec, a synthetic fleece made from recycled plastic bottles, named one of the 20th Century’s greatest inventions by Time magazine. They supplied Patagonia and other cutting-edge performance apparel companies for the next decade. Read More >
Philanthropy or Charity? The Difference a Purpose Makes in Three Steps
Charity is an act born of kindness – giving money, a coat or food to those in need. Philanthropy is a philosophy. The word “philanthropy” derives from the Greek word philanthrōpía, meaning a love for mankind. True and authentic philanthropy is an altruistic intent to promote the welfare of others and a belief that through philanthropic efforts one can improve lives. Charity is tactical, philanthropy is strategic. Charity provides a short-term solution, philanthropy is in it for the long haul.
So, which is your company engaged in? Read More >
