Sustainability: Should We Flip A Coin?
50/50 Situations
The present situation in the United States Senate, with an even divide of 50 Democratic senators and 50 Republican senators, begs a lot of questions. Can it present a positive example for humanity? While there is a tiebreaker, the majority is slim. Half of the group may be happy, the other half likely not, but since they vote on numerous issues, happiness in the form of victory is fleeting. Collaboration and in particular, the need for finding understanding and subsequent agreement, is critical. We need some lessons on how to handle 50/50 situations to avoid stalemates, and instead, create positive impact. Clear consensus will not be a common event.
Can we learn anything from games of chance? The roulette wheel and in particular, betting on red and black, presents close to a 50/50 proposition, with the green 0 and 00 being the outliers. When you hit green, you win big. Long streaks of red or black will inevitably occur, but in the end, the hit ratio will even out. Timing is everything.
Greg Takehara with Paula Vlamings in Las Vegas
Flipping a coin and seeing whether it lands heads or tails represents a true 50/50. Games often begin with a flip of the coin, which determines who goes first, but rarely does that affect the outcome of the game.
What about a 50% chance of survival? Certainly, not the best news one can receive, but with the right attitude and strong positivity, a patient can overcome the obstacles and become a survivor. This is also known as looking at a glass half full.
A 50/50 partnership requires consent of the other partner. Once there is conflict, the partnership is in jeopardy. If you have a trusted partner, with complementary skill sets, and eyes on the same prize, this type of partnership can flourish.
The 50/50 raffle is a particularly nice win-win, as half of the prize goes to the winner and the other half generally goes to a charity. Sometimes the winner will even contribute part or all the winnings to the good cause.
Sustainability as a 50/50 Proposition
I raise these scenarios to demonstrate how we can evaluate and make gains in a 50/50 world. At Tourism Cares, we are trying to advance the principles of sustainability to help build for a stronger future. Arguably, the odds of our industry reaching these lofty end goals are 50/50. We are at a definitive crossroads, much like the patient with a 50% chance of survival.
We simply cannot flip a coin here.
Our best shot requires a conscious effort, continual positivity, empathy, and generosity. We must collaborate and Tourism Cares is blessed to have the right partners to ensure the best result - our staff and board, our membership, and our cohorts in the Future of Tourism Coalition. We will all work together to tip the scales in our industry’s favor and ensure we preserve travel experiences and treasured destinations for future generations.
It is either that or bet on green.
- Greg Takehara, CEO Tourism Cares
