Meaning: The quote by Robert Shea captures a fundamental challenge that many organizations face as they grow and evolve. It speaks to the notion that success and prosperity can often lead organizations away from their original intentions and founding principles. This phenomenon is often referred to as "mission drift" and has been the subject of much discussion and concern within the realm of organizational management and leadership.

The quote suggests that as organizations become more successful, they may become increasingly focused on the pursuit of wealth, power, or status, and in doing so, lose sight of the values and principles that guided their establishment. This can result in a misalignment between the organization's original mission and its current activities, leading to a sense of disconnect and disillusionment among stakeholders.

One of the reasons for this phenomenon is that as organizations grow, they often face pressure to adapt to changing market conditions, competitive forces, and stakeholder expectations. In response to these pressures, they may make strategic decisions that prioritize short-term gains over long-term sustainability and adherence to their founding principles.

Moreover, as new leaders and employees join the organization, they may bring different perspectives and priorities, further contributing to a dilution of the organization's original ideals. This can result in a gradual erosion of the organization's core values and a drift away from its intended purpose.

Furthermore, success can breed complacency, leading organizations to become less attuned to the needs and concerns of their stakeholders. This can result in a loss of empathy and a failure to address societal or environmental issues that were once central to the organization's mission.

To mitigate the risk of mission drift, organizations must remain vigilant and committed to their founding principles. This requires strong leadership, a clear articulation of the organization's mission and values, and a willingness to make difficult decisions that prioritize long-term impact over short-term gains.

Organizations can also benefit from regularly revisiting and reaffirming their mission and values, ensuring that they remain relevant and meaningful in the face of changing circumstances. This may involve engaging stakeholders in dialogue, conducting regular assessments of the organization's impact, and holding leadership and staff accountable for upholding the organization's core principles.

In conclusion, Robert Shea's quote underscores the importance of maintaining organizational integrity in the face of success and prosperity. It serves as a reminder that staying true to one's original ideals and purposes is essential for sustaining long-term impact and relevance. By heeding this wisdom, organizations can strive to remain aligned with their founding principles while navigating the complexities of growth and change.