Jordan thought the answer was more policies.
They run a specialty bike shop that’s been around for over 30 years — selling high-end bikes, gear, and accessories.
But with fun comes friction. These aren’t simple products. They need expert fitting, regular repairs, and care. And there are thousands of different parts to keep track of.
So when things went wrong — a return gone bad, a frustrated customer, a mistake on the floor — the default fix was… another policy.
When “More Policies” Backfire
At first, it seemed logical: more policies meant more control, more protection.
But soon Jordan noticed something unsettling:
- Customers were walking in expecting Amazon-speed service and big-box-style returns.
- Staff were nervous about making mistakes or upsetting people.
- And every new “policy” only added more fear.
Instead of freedom, the team was walking on eggshells. Instead of rhythm, the culture felt off-beat.
Jordan finally realized:
“The policies meant to protect us were actually stressing out my people — and stressed-out people don’t give great service.”
The Tempo of Culture
That was Jordan’s turning point.
They stopped trying to control everything with more policies. Instead, they started leading with rhythm.
Because here’s the truth: culture always has a beat — whether you set it on purpose or not.
When leaders choose the tempo, they create clarity. They tell their people:
- This is how we treat each other.
- This is how we treat our customers.
- This is how we show up — no matter what’s happening around us.
Great leaders don’t just enforce policies. They set the tempo.
What This Means for You as a Leader
Every organization has a rhythm. The question is — are you setting it intentionally?
If not, fear and confusion will set it for you.
Here’s how you can start leading the tempo of your culture:
1. Replace fear with freedom.
Policies should empower people, not paralyze them.
2. Lead with clarity, not clutter.
Simple rhythms beat complex rules every time.
3. Model the beat yourself.
Your team doesn’t just listen to what you say — they move to the rhythm you live.
Your Turn
Think about your organization right now:
- What’s the rhythm your people are moving to?
- Is it set by intention, or by accident?
- Are your policies empowering your people — or stressing them out?
✨ Remember: you set the tempo. If you want your culture on-beat, it starts with you.