We are not victims of our situation We Meaning Factcheck Usage

Context

In the book, he’s talking about creating a “Circle of Safety” within organizations. He argues that leaders are responsible for the environment, the culture. So when he says “we are the architects,” he’s speaking directly to leaders, reminding them that the trust, or lack thereof, in their team is a direct result of the environment they’ve consciously or unconsciously built.

Usage Examples

Here’s how you can actually use this.

• For a struggling team: Instead of letting them complain about another department, ask, “Okay, but what’s one thing we can architect differently in our process to change this dynamic?”
• For personal development: When you’re feeling stuck, write down the situation. Then, honestly list all the choices you made that led you here. It’s a brutal but brilliant way to reclaim your power.
• For a coaching moment: With a colleague who feels victimized, gently guide them with, “I hear you. Now, let’s put on our architect hats. What’s the first brick we can lay to start building a new situation?”

To whom it appeals?

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FAQ

Question: Does this mean bad things that happen to us are always our fault?

Answer: Absolutely not. That’s a common misinterpretation. It’s not about fault for the event itself, but about ownership of the response and the path forward. You didn’t architect the storm, but you absolutely architect the shelter you build.

Question: How is this different from just “positive thinking”?

Answer: Positive thinking is passive—just hoping for a better outcome. This is active. This is about doing. It’s the blueprint, the hammer, the nails. It’s the work.

Question: Can a whole team really think this way?

Answer: It starts at the top. When a leader models this, when they say “I architected that miscommunication, and here’s how I’ll fix it,” it gives everyone else permission to do the same. It transforms culture.