“So much of what we call management consists of making it difficult for people to work." -Peter Drucker
Did you know that the average American works 44 hours per week, or 8.8 hours per day, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics? That's 2,288 hours per year! It's safe to say that work takes up much of our lives.
With so much of your life spent at work, I hope you enjoy what you do, and are valued by those you work with.
Let me ask you a question about your work experience.
Who is the best supervisor you have ever worked for -- and why do you feel this way?
Chances are, you feel this way for one (or more) of the following reasons:
You had a level of freedom and autonomy to make decisions or act on behalf of your organization.
Your potential was recognized, and you had opportunities to continue growing.
You were affirmed as a vital asset to the organization, critical to its success.
Now, let's flip the script — because the opposite is also true.
Who is the worst supervisor you have ever worked for -- and why do you feel this way?
Chances are, you feel this way for one (or more) of the following reasons:
The worst supervisor you have ever had worked for may have:
Micromanaged your day and made decisions on your behalf
Undervalued you or failed to show you the appreciation you deserve
Saw you as just another cog in the organizational machine
What kind of leader are you?
I believe that legacy leaders (leaders who constantly aim to leave a positive legacy) hold certain presuppositions. They believe people are fundamentally creative, resourceful, and whole -- and they work to ensure the success of those around them. A legacy leader believes in the power of investing in others -- and they know that as people grow into their full potential, the organization wins.
A legacy leader leaves a piece of themselves behind in the success of those they lead while inspiring those around them to do the same.
As you leverage your influence, take a moment to consider how you lead, how you view those around you, and what kind of legacy you are building with those who are looking to you for leadership.
