Leaf, Branch or Trunk - Which one are you?
How often have you experienced this? Interesting metaphor that many of the "leaf nodes" (what some refer to as "individual contributors") tend to be innovative and brave, but many of the "branches" (layers of management) can't stomach the risks. In their (admirable) desire to be strong and stable, the "branches" put safety above all else.
Can anything be done about all the spirit-squashing risk-aversion? Recognition is the first step. Unfortunately, those who recognize it tend to be the leaf nodes--the ones with the power to create and implement the ideas, but very little power to authorize them. Those with the most potential to create change are the branches. The Managers With a Clue.
Death by Risk Aversion