What are the three U's that help define the cause of insubordination?

The three U's—Unaware, Unable, Unwilling—provide a framework for understanding the underlying causes of insubordination.

When individuals are unaware, they lack the necessary information or context to follow directives or understand expectations. This can lead to unintentional disobedience, as they may simply not know what is required of them.

If a person is unable to comply, it indicates that they face barriers that prevent them from meeting expectations, whether due to lack of skills, resources, or other constraints. This highlights that insubordination may not always stem from a reluctance to follow orders, but rather from genuine limitations.

Lastly, the unwillingness component points to the attitude or mindset that affects compliance. If someone is unwilling, this can reflect personal beliefs or dissatisfaction with leadership or organizational direction, suggesting a disconnect between the individual's values and the expectations set upon them.

The combination of these three aspects—being unaware, unable, or unwilling—offers a comprehensive view of potential reasons behind insubordination, emphasizing the importance of clear communication, support, and alignment of values within teams or organizations.