Article: Pope Francis, sensing he is close to death, moves to protect his legacy, politico.edu
Language that inspires:
- “rushing to tie up loose ends ahead of the battle to succeed him”
- “intended to ensure that the process plays out according to Francis’s wishes”
- “He may not die now but of course he eventually will,” said one Vatican official. We all die.”
Prompts to Expand Your Thinking: Addressing the Loose Ends
When reflecting on key relationships in your family and family business systems, consider which ones have significant loose ends—issues or topics that remain unsettled or unexplained:
For example:
- “I haven’t told my sister that I’m staying away from her family because of the verbal fight I had with her husband after mom’s birthday last year.”
- “My father transferred the business leadership role to my younger brother without discussing it with me first, and we’ve never addressed my feelings about being overlooked.”
- “I’ve avoided telling my business partner cousin that I’m considering selling my shares in our family company to pursue another opportunity.”
- “My aunt doesn’t know that I discovered inconsistencies in the family trust accounts while reviewing documents for the annual meeting.”
Prompt #1
Do you anticipate a succession battle? If so, what might it look like—between specific individuals or family factions?
Prompt #2
What are the advantages and downsides to letting a succession battle unfold within your family business?
Prompt #3
How are you currently influencing the succession process? Are you working behind the scenes or publicly supporting a particular candidate?
Prompt #4
What risks would you face by getting involved after declaring you would remain neutral?
