The source of IKEA’s resourcefulness
Read moreSince the company’s beginnings, IKEA and its founder have been characterized by a strong sense of identity that comes from the region of Småland—a harsh, rugged, punishing region that is largely agricultural. As we saw in the previous post, one of the defining traits of the Smalandians is their extraordinary thriftiness, an ability to go through life with limited resources.
How IKEA’s core values are connected with its creator’s origins
Read moreLast time, I wrote that one of the best examples I have ever found of using personal narrative to influence one’s world was that of IKEA and its creator, Ingvar Kamprad. In fact, IKEA’s corporate culture is so tightly intertwined with the origins of its iconic founder that it is sometimes difficult to separate the two. On a surface level,
The compelling story of IKEA: what’s in a name?
Read moreNews that that IKEA founder Ingvar Kamprad had passed away—on January 27 at the age of 91—left me a bit reflective. Though I never had the pleasure of meeting Mr Kamprad, his life narrative and the story of IKEA have been a part of me for the past twenty years. The company he started has provided some of the most frequently
Politics and narrative: why people need a human story
Read moreMy recent forays into political commentary have elicited a number of reactions from people who have been following my work and writing for years. Former students, in particular, are somewhat puzzled by my sudden interest in the speeches of candidates and public officials, as this is an arena I have mostly avoided in the past. In fact, I continue to
How Oprah’s story connects with us on a basic human level
Read moreLast time, I referenced some of the reactions in the worldwide press to Oprah Winfrey’s acceptance speech at the recent Golden Globe Awards ceremony. At the time of my writing—in my transatlantic airplane seat—I had not heard the speech, nor was I completely sure exactly what these awards represent. This week, I had the opportunity to educate myself a bit
Oprah for president?
Read moreToday, I write once again while sitting on an airplane, this time heading for a few days of work in the US. One of the things I enjoy doing in international airports is picking up newspapers from a variety of places and cultures. It is a ritual that gives me a feeling of nostalgia, a reminder of what I used