Yesterday, I had the opportunity to sit through a leadership training event. The day was well spent. None of the things I heard were new to me but it is always good to hear them again and maybe with a new twist. One of the things that stuck in my mind from yesterday was the difference between a manager and a leader. Their definition was “a manager does things right, a leader does the right things.” In other words, leaders must be able to allocate some time to seeing the bigger picture – to thinking about the future and seeing how things could and should be. If we allow ourselves to be constantly pulled into the needs of the day, it becomes difficult to maintain our focus on the vision.
I have heard this leader vs. manager description illustrated this way as well. We can devote our energy to climbing the ladder well. We can study how to climb more efficiently. We might even find it beneficial to study the ladder and develop a strategy on how best to climb. We can train and organize our resources to climb the ladder well. We can do all these things, but, if that ladder is leaning against the wrong building, when we reach the top, what have really accomplished? A manager works at climbing well. The leader takes the time to step back and make sure the ladder is leaning against the right goal.
How are you investing your time today? If you are like me, a great deal of my day is spent managing. But, I encourage you today to stop long enough to make sure your ladder is leaning against the right building.
Really good thoughts, Brian. I have been re-reading John Maxwell’s book, “Developing the Leader Within You” and other resources on the subject.of leadership. I had to smile at the timing when I logged on to read your thoughts for the day!