Clear is Kind. Unclear is Unkind.

A Principle for Thriving Family Businesses

In our nearly 4 decades guiding family enterprises, one principle we return to often is from Brené Brown’s Dare to Lead:
“Clear is kind. Unclear is unkind.”

This idea is central to our work—helping families build clarity across all 5 MOUNTAIN® Teams: Family, Management, Shareholder, Board, and Advisor.

The Power of Clarity

In a family enterprise, clarity isn’t just about good communication—it’s about setting the stage for trust, accountability, and a lasting legacy. It begins early, with the Family Team. Parenting is where we first learn where we “can be” or “not be.” Families that are clear about expectations—behavior, values, even the possibility of joining the business—lay the foundation for confidence and mutual respect.

That clarity continues through formal structures. Amid complexities and opportunities, a Family Employment Policy provides clarity and clear boundaries for family members who want to work in the business. This clearly defines how performance and opportunities are earned, not assumed.

While each family defines their own “clarity” for their 5 MOUNTAIN® System, they usually include some of the following. 

• Family: What were the expectations growing up, and how are values taught at home?
• Management: What are the Career development criteria, and transparent leadership development?
• Shareholder: What is the path to ownership? What are the vision and values documented in a Shareholder Covenant?
• Board: What are the criteria for selecting family and independent directors? What are the Board’s expectations of Management?

The Role of Self

At the heart of every team is the Self. Personal growth, emotional intelligence, and the courage to be honest are essential. Clarity begins within—and spreads outward.

We help families create clarity across every mountain, every generation. Clarity with kindness builds sustainable legacies.

We’re here for you.