Opening Insights
We hear a lot about the importance of management. Organizational Management. Time Management. Priority Management. Anger Management. Yet, what are we really trying to manage, and what is management really all about?
There are a number of different Management Styles and Techniques, yet with the overwhelming amount of theory and “research,” the art and science of management is still an enigma to many.
The science of people is not rocket science, it is harder than rocket science.
EDWARD TUFTE
Informational Insights
Breaking Down the Rocket Science: The two sides of the management Coin
In examining the principles of management most theories are lacking in the understanding of the word “to manage.” According to Oxford Dictionaries “to manage” means:
1. be in charge of (a business, organization, or undertaking); run: “their elder son managed the farm”
synonyms: be in charge of · run · be head of · head · direct · control ·
Great! Sounds logical, however there is one glaring problem. The synonyms for to manage are: be in charge of · run · be head of · head · direct · control. There is a big, big, big difference between the two ends of the spectrum: being in charge (taking charge) versus being in control.
- To be in control = expectation and fear
- To take charge = personal and collective empowerment (to lead)
The Two Sides of the Management Coin
The two sides of the management coin seem to point to a further distinction in the definition of management that being: managers versus leaders.
- Managers: manage events to avoid problems or deal with problems after they have occurred.
- Leaders (Level 5 managers and leaders):don’t manage events, they make decisions to address problems before they occur – to prevent probable problems down the road.
- Level 5 leaders build up the people around them: “Making the dream big enough for everybody.” Richard Jorgensen
- Level 5 leaders do this by a strategic process of assessment and discernment of self and others, coming from a perspective of honesty, selflessness, purity of intention and trust in the common goals and principles.
- Level 5 leaders lead with the goals of success and problem preventment
- Level 5 leaders take charge of their live and responsibilities and support those around them in doing the same- leading by example and principles.
- Level 5 leaders are strong in will and vision, and are not swayed or tempted by illusions of fear.
What does this mean?
In assessing your management and leadership style examine and ask yourself:- Am I a manager or a decision maker?
- Do I seek and try and control everything or do I seek to understand and make decisions?
- Do I make decisions to avoid or manage problems or do I make decisions to prevent problems?
Do I make decisions in the moment or do I examine the cause and effect of all situations and experiences?
Effective managers and leaders develop and master the skills of:
- Level 5 Leadership
- Emotional Maturity
- Eternal Learning and Discovery
- Assessment and discernment
- Communication based on the 4I’s and grounded in the 4 Absolutes
- Emotional Shared and Self-Authority, Responsibility and Accountability
Possibilities for Consideration
Take a moment and examine…
- As you reviewed the material above, what stood out to you?
- What is the potential impact, economically and/or socially?
- What action is needed to stop or support this idea?
- You may want to consider whether you:
- want to be aware of,
- should become supportive of,
- would want to be active in this topic?
Add Your Insight
I have been impressed with the urgency of doing. Knowing is not enough; we must apply.
Being willing is not enough; we must do.
LEONARDO DA VINCI