Building Healthy Organizations

“Priceless education of self, energy, and awareness of the elements that form who we truly are and are key variables in our function and character. The Five Elements and the humanistic approach to creating harmonious and productive work environments full of synergy, respect, and self-actualization were emphasized in this leadership program well presented by the Kahakulei Institute.”
— Osmel Maestre, Miami-Dade County

Learn more about The Five Elements

Navigating change in productive and collaborative ways is crucial for any organization’s success and sustainability.

The Five Elements provides a holistic, systems-based approach to organizational design and leadership development. It is a powerful tool for managing complexity, identifying root causes, and implementing generative solutions.

Case Study: University of California, SF
Case Study: Santa Fe Public Schools

Introducing The Five Elements

Listen to Kevin Kahakula’akea John Fong introduce The Five Elements knowledge system.

The Five Elements articulates a series of leadership archetypes and organizational lifecycles through the following elements -

  • Water

    Lifecycle
    Consolidation

    Skill
    Analysis

    Archetype
    Philosopher

  • Wood

    Lifecycle
    Creation

    Skill
    Innovation

    Archetype
    Visionary
    Optimist

  • Fire

    Lifecycle
    Direction

    Skill
    Communication

    Archetype
    Networker

  • Earth

    Lifecycle
    Coordination

    Skill
    Teambuilding

    Archetype
    Caregiver
    Facilitator
    Rock

  • Metal

    Lifecycle
    Implementation

    Skill
    Strategizing

    Archetype
    Achiever
    Protector

The key concepts of The Five Elements lies in understanding how each element can support (e.g. Wood/Creation fuels Fire/Direction) or restrain (e.g. Metal/Achiever chops the potential of Wood/Visionary) the other, and in determining how the balance between the elements can foster constructive solutions in any situation.

Calculate Your Five Elements Profile