Management vs. Leadership – What’s the Difference?
For many of us, we collapse these two concepts. Not by our own fault, but by our training. Most days, our bosses and colleauges are expecting us to “better manage” the processes and outcomes of our jobs. Frequently when we get advice on how to manage, it’s about controlling, driving or measuring more. No wonder we struggle to lead.
Leadership isn’t about controlling, driving or measuring. It’s about courage, inspiration, intimacy and service. It’s about setting situations and people free to do their own work – even inside the walls of corporations.
Stop Writing – Start Relating
Michigan is working through an interesting transition. It’s requiring much from all of us, especially those in a career search. It’s requiring that all of us consider a new paradigm, not only regarding the automotive industry, but in ourselves as well.
If we put this in the realm of seeking a new job, one of the old paradigms is the resume. You know, that piece of paper that we edit incessantly in hopes that we’ll find just the “right” language to use.
But does a resume really do us justice in an economy that continues to view human beings as a commodity? Does a resume truly communicate who we are?
Just a matter of time
Five years ago, a friend asked me what time it was just before he noticed a clock on the wall behind me. I said, “It’s 3pm.” Jeff asked, “Are you sure? The clock behind you says 2:55.” I replied, “I set my watch five minutes fast to ensure I’m on time.” Jeff said, “That’s weird Preston. Why don’t you just set your watch to the correct time and simply show up when you’re supposed to?”
That day, nothing made quite as much sense as his comment.
I going to offer you three invitations:
- Consider “time management” is an oxymoron
- We don’t understand the real challenges we have with time
- Using just three leadership tools will change your relationship with time
