Instead of with a rowboat, search for the north star by navigating a sailboat through turbulent times

Abstract

AbstractWe respond to von Schnurbein and Ahmad's (2019) metaphor of rowing to elucidate the inflexibility of foundations. We suggest that perhaps a sailboat would be more appropriate to finding the north star and add a fifth proposition: a participatory decision‐making process that includes balanced feedback. This approach, though not new, can pose risks such as misaligned priorities and ineffective decisions. To navigate these challenges, the introduction of a "court jester" role is proposed, encouraging open dialogue and critical self‐reflection. The flexibility akin to sailing, where adjustments are made based on feedback, is advocated for effective and dynamic foundation governance.