he other day, a family friend came over for dinner. Somewhere between the brisket and baked beans, she asked how business was going and whether I had any projects in the works.
I gave her the short version. But then I started to geek out a bit.
I explained how I’ve been working with AI, not just to help businesses run more efficiently, but to help people connect more deeply. Most people think of AI as a way to cut costs or speed things up. I see it as a tool that, if used right, can help leaders be more present and teams be more human.
She paused for a moment. Then she said, “That’s not what I expected. I’ve never heard anyone talk about AI like that.”
That stuck with me.
Beyond Neat Answers to Complex Questions
Because too often, we hear neat answers to complex questions.
One of those tidy little phrases goes like this: “If you focus on culture, you don’t need to worry about revenue.”
It sounds nice. But it’s not true.
The False Choice: Culture vs. Revenue
Culture is essential. I believe in it fully. But culture alone isn’t enough. It doesn’t automatically bring in customers or keep your cash flow healthy. And if you’re not careful, that kind of thinking can become a cover story. A way to avoid hard conversations or tough decisions.
The problem is that it sets up a false choice. Culture or revenue. Like you have to pick one.
Real Leadership Means Tending to Both
But real leadership means tending to both. At the same time.
Good culture doesn’t replace strategy. It supports it. It doesn’t eliminate the need to focus on revenue. It makes that work more effective.
When culture is strong, people row in the same direction. They trust each other. They bring more of themselves to the table.
But you still need to steer the boat. You still need to track what’s working, sell at the right price, and keep your margins healthy.
That’s not the opposite of culture. That’s what makes culture matter.
The Truth About Culture and Business
So when someone says that if you focus on culture, you won’t need to think about revenue, smile if you want. But don’t buy it.
Because the truth is this:
Culture won’t save your business. But it will show you where it’s going. And who’s willing to go there with you.
And if you get both right? That’s when the real magic happens.
Paul Boomer
I help business owners lead with clarity, presence, and purpose. Using tools like the Leadership Circle Profile and Myers-Briggs, I support leaders as they grow their people, shape culture, and make better decisions through deeper insight.
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