I won't post a much-too-long rant here like I did on a similar entry on Crescenzo's blog, but I will ask this:

Wouldn't we all save a lot of time and energy if we simply agreed that corporate leaders and their lieutenants do not want employees who challenge the status quo, think outside the box, act as change agents, or any of those other God-awful cliches found in mission and values statements?

They want us to behave ourselves, shut up and do what they tell us. And if anyone believes otherwise, I have about a dozen stories (as I'm sure most of your readers do) that bear witness to my assertion.

Robert, you need a drink, and I wish I were there to buy you one.

On my worst days I believe what you're saying is true, and, you're right, I've got my own dozen horror stories. But I've also got a few special memories of seeing leaders change their minds based on good advice, delivered well, or sometimes just responding positively when they get yelled at by enough disgruntled employees or customers.

There is room for positive change, always. We wouldn't be in this business if there weren't, no?

Of course you are right, Ron. But it feels better to moan about it right now. Besides, people who see the bright side are rarely bought drinks.