Are You A Boss Or A Leader?
Updated: Oct 16, 2021
We all have, at some point in our lives, crossed paths with that person in a group no one enjoys being around or working with. Maybe at work, in school, someone in the family or in a friend group. We don't like them. Not because they are lazy or absent when needed, but because they are just too bossy. They bark out demands, take all the credit, give orders, command and give answers rather than offer solutions. When they are put in a position of authority, they enjoy being in charge and are not afraid to remind you that THEY are in charge. They do not receive correction well.They take offense when challenged and reiterate their position of authority.
On the other hand, we have that one person we seem to enjoy having around. Because they make the group more cohesive. They are looking for servitude not altitude, they share responsibility with the group, they offer solutions to problems and even when they offer corrections, you know its from a place of love. This is a leader. They show you the way and offer to work you through it, they are commited to the group's goals rather than their goals alone. They strive to build those around them, work to raise other leaders and are open to correction.
After listening to the podcast and reading the differences between a boss and a leader, which one are you? Below are a few questions to reflect on to help you see if you are a boss or leader.
How do people on your team respond to you? Are they happy to do what you ask or do they grumble and drag their feet?
Are they looking to you for direction or would they rather try to figure things out on their own?
Do you control or facilitate conversation?
Do you feel hurt when challenged or corrected?
Are you receptive of constructive criticism?
Do you dictate and point fingers or do you say “let us do this together?”
If most of your responses point at you being a boss, reflect on how this impacts not only your relationships and growth of your business, but also your personal growth. Take steps towards becoming a leader, be open to being challenged, lead by example, be a team player.
Work towards being 1% better today than you were yesterday.
Food For Thought: Brought to you by Lord Chesterfield.
“Advice is seldom welcome, and those who need it the most always like it the least.”