I came across this illustration and thought about you and some of your personal and professional endeavors.
Each of us, in some way, is responsible for the actions or performance of other people. It may be at work, home, the community, place of worship, etc. When we strive to achieve results through others, our style will fall somewhere between two ends of an influence spectrum: a boss and a leader.
In case you’re wondering where you fit, the list below may offer some clues.
- A boss will drive subordinates; a leader will coach them.
- A boss will rely on authority granted by the position; a leader will draw on the goodwill established through communication and behavior.
- A boss will instill fear; a leader will generate enthusiasm.
- A boss will use others to get things done; a leader will develop people while fulfilling a mission.
- A boss will blame a breakdown; a leader will fix the breakdown.
- A boss will take the credit; a leader will give credit.
- A boss will command others; a leader will ask them.
- A boss will say, “Go!”; a leader will say, “Let’s go!”
So, are you more of a boss or more of a leader? It’s a choice. I hope this list brings awareness to which option works best for you.
Until next time, stay safe.
Regards,
Keith D Ellison