Field Guide: Practicing the Habits of a Healthy Cooperative Democracy
The CBLD Policy Template includes the suggestion that a board of directors should “practice the habits of a successful democracy,” and should “practice, protect, promote and perpetuate a healthy democracy for our Cooperative.” This seems like a tall order, and boards might get stumped trying to figure out how to translate aspirational goals like these into concrete actions. This Field Guide will outline some of the key ingredients of democracy as practiced within the context of a cooperatively owned business. As you read, you may want to reflect on your own board’s habits. Which things do you do well and regularly? In which areas would you like to develop better habits?
