August 2, 2026
Change is the one true constant in our lives.
I’ve found this to be particularly true in the world of business and believe it may be more relevant today than in any time past. How can leaders keep our companies up-to-date and ahead of the competition? Take the author Robert Kriegel’s advice: “If it ain’t broke, break it”. Do not allow for sacred cows—all aspects of our work can be improved.
The old expression “If it ain’t broke, don’t break it” encourages us to accept the status quo. At Tractor Supply Company, we evolved to say: “If it ain’t broke, let’s break it and make it better”. Please understand that I do not mean we should push for chaos without careful thought; rather, I believe all organizations should be willing to examine their ways of doing business and have frank, clear-eyed discussions about potential improvements. Every idea is worthy of consideration and should be respected. If leaders do not create space for these discussions, potential progress will be stifled from the start.
Let’s all find time to huddle up with our people on the frontlines—those in your organization who are closest to the work—and listen closely to their suggestions and complaints. I’ll bet if you did this for several days, you would have a mountain of fresh ideas about potential improvements to your operations. Plus, this kind of open door between all levels of the organization helps to build camaraderie and respect across the workforce.
If you are a senior leader and a believer in continuous improvement, be sure to talk about it at every opportunity. Don’t miss the chance to discuss the merits of breaking-it-to-fix-it at organizational meetings and gatherings. This message is particularly powerful when specific examples can be tied to a positive impact on the bottom line.
Think back to the last time there was an improvement made to a process or product within your organization. Now, ask yourself if the initiators were recognized and rewarded. As you see improvements in products and processes, do all you can to recognize those individuals who brought the change to life. If a team made it all happen, have a celebration to recognize the accomplishment of the group. The more your organization celebrates improvement, the more likely you are to sustain momentum in that direction.
Every organization, regardless of specialty or sector, can use a refresh every now and again. Ensure that continuous improvement becomes a pillar of your team culture and you will stay ahead of the pack.
published Nashville Business Journal
