1
Name Drift
The Standard Reset
When a team member's behavior drifts from the GDD-defined standard but they haven't noticed. The first step in the GDD recovery protocol: name the drift specifically.
"I noticed [specific behavior]. Our standard is [defined behavior]. What happened?"
"I'm not asking why. I'm asking what recovery looks like this week."
"The standard hasn't changed. Let's get back to it."
2
Restate Standard
The Pressure Acknowledgment
When drift happens because of genuine pressure and the leader needs to recover without excusing. Restate the GDD standard clearly before moving to recovery.
"I understand the pressure was real. The standard still applies. What's the recovery plan?"
"Pressure explains drift. It doesn't excuse it. What do we do now?"
"We don't lower the bar when it gets hard. We recover faster."
3
Declare Recovery
The Self-Recovery
When you as a leader need to model recovery after your own behavior drifted. GDD requires leaders to publicly declare their recovery - this builds trust and accountability.
"I didn't hold the standard last week. Here's specifically where I drifted, and here's my recovery plan."
"I owe you a correction. I tolerated [behavior] that contradicts our standard."
"I'm recovering to [specific standard] this week. Hold me accountable."
4
Reset Tolerance
The Pattern Conversation
When the same drift has occurred more than twice and requires a direct governance conversation. GDD does not tolerate repeated drift - tolerance must be reset.
"This is the third time [behavior] has drifted. We need to talk about whether this standard is one you're committed to."
"A pattern isn't a mistake. It's a choice. What needs to change?"
"I value you on this team. I also won't tolerate repeated drift. Let's solve this together."