BOOKS AND BADGES
The Infinite Game By : Simon Sinek
Although Simon Sinek wrote this book primarily for business leaders , it has many important ideas and concepts applicable to law enforcement today .
The author starts by describing two types of games . The first is a finite game . A finite game is one where there are at least two known players , fixed rules , and there is an agreed-upon objective that ends the game . Sinek uses football as an example of a finite game .
In contrast , an infinite game has known and unknown players . There are no exact or agreed-upon rules , and there is no end to the game . In other words , you never “ finish ” or “ reach the end .” There is no winning .
Chief Billy Grogan Dunwoody PD
Instead , the object of the game is to continue playing and do it well . Policing sounds like an infinite game to me .
Sinek is a motivational speaker and author of several books , including Start With Why and Leaders Eat Last . Over the last several years , he has spoken at multiple International Association of Chiefs of Police conferences .
Leaders in finite organizations focus on short-term results . They will sacrifice the long-term health of the organization for immediate success . The values of the organization and even the people who work there are irrelevant compared to the desired outcomes .
Conversely , leaders in infinite organizations focus on long-term success . This success is achieved by valuing the members of the organization over profit . Valuing employees is inexpensive and can lead to high levels of motivation , loyalty , and productivity , ultimately leading to more revenue and satisfied customers .
Infinite-minded leaders build something not designed to “ win ” but built to last for generations to come . Doesn ’ t that mindset sound like something we should be doing in law enforcement ?
Yes .
I answered the question in case you were not sure about the correct answer !
26 FALL 2021