GRASS: Gatherings, Rituals, Actions, Symbols, and Stories

GRASS is my shorthand for what matters most when it comes to culture: Gatherings, Rituals, Actions, Symbols, and Stories.

It’s a practical, memorable way to focus on the everyday moments that shape culture. But GRASS is also a rich metaphor for culture itself.

What Grass Teaches Us About Culture

🌱 Grass needs care and maintenance—it’s not a one-and-done intervention.
🌱 Grass can be wild or well-trimmed—both are beautiful when healthy.
🌱 Even the best grass grows weeds.
🌱 There are many varieties of grass. You can grow it from seed, import turf, or work with what you have.
🌱 The grass looks greener on the other side—but it’s greenest where you water it.
🌱 A complex root system connects individual blades.
🌱 You can become an expert, but there’s nothing like caring for your own grass.
🌱 There are grass experts and resources, but how we treat our grass every day matters most.

Culture works the same way. It thrives with care, connection, and consistent attention.

G.R.A.S.S: Gatherings, Rituals, Actions, Symbols, and Stories

These five elements are the foundation of a strong culture. They’re where leaders can take meaningful, deliberate action every day to shape and shift their workplace.

• Gatherings: How and why you bring people together.
• Rituals: Shared behaviours that create meaning and connection.
• Actions: What you do and how you do it.
• Symbols: The visible signs that signal what matters most.
• Stories: The narratives that define and reinforce your culture.

Each element is an opportunity to create a culture that’s intentional, impactful, and aligned with your values.

So, the next time you think about culture, think about GRASS. It’s simple, actionable, and it works—just like a healthy patch of grass in your backyard.