Today I wanted to write about the balance between managing and leading. I know you are an experienced leader, and while it’s challenging, on most days it’s work you enjoy. It’s also true that work today requires leaders to also manage. The question becomes, how do you become better at balance?
What are a few of the differences between Leading and Managing:
- Managing is about the how, while leading is about the why.
- Managers focus on the doing of the day-to-day. They balance resources and results – on time and within budget. Leaders inspire for both today and tomorrow. They set direction, establishing true North. Their horizon is broader.
- Managers focus on efficiency. Leaders focus on effectiveness.
- Managers work with people on tasks. Leaders create the team spirit and the development of the team members.
- Managers make operational decisions. Leaders make strategic decisions.
- Managers make incremental changes to complete the work. Leaders implement big changes when the marketplace demands it.
As you read this abbreviated list, it’s easy to see that every day, you are called upon to achieve success in both areas of responsibility. Doing it well means creating a seamless blend of both skills sets. It means managing when needed, digging in, and then returning to continuous neutral to rebalance your mindset. And vice versa. This requires your own continuous improvement. Chances are, you are over balancing on one side of the equation. Give thought to the following:
- Self-awareness.
What makes you unbalanced, and what would get you in balance? - Organizational awareness.
Are you aligned and misaligned to the needs of the business? - Team awareness.
What does the team require of you today? Is it managing and leading and
why?
You are resilient by nature, I know that. And as you balance your management and leadership skills, you will create a resilient organization.
I’m rooting for you!
