Publication 18, Issue 1
“Yeah, let yourself go, follow that feeling, maybe something new is what you’re needing . . .” I like Darius Rucker’s songs – the catchy lyrics always seem to have a personal message takeaway for me! I know, Organizers, even if trying something new isn’t in our DNA, sometimes the inspiration to take a new approach can come from an unexpected source – like a song lyric. Because real management development starts with you, take a few minutes to focus on your self-awareness.
I remember years ago being out with my niece, who now is a junior in college, and I was either trying to overmanage something or getting frustrated because my “plan” wasn’t working. She said, “Sometimes, Aunt Kathy, you just have to wing it!” Love you for that Sarah! As an Organizer, “winging it” isn’t my routine! Sarah’s were powerful words that hit me like a splash of cold water. I thought, “Was I stressing her out? Was it really something to be upset over?” I quickly turned it around (something not easy to do, but doable, if you get my drift) and we had a great time. I always have a great time with Sarah!
As managers, when was the last time you did something for the first time? Put your feelings aside, left those highlighters on the table, didn’t get agitated quickly with something and actually allowed others to weigh in on your idea, I mean really weigh in! Take a look…
Peacemakers – When was the last time you took something personally but didn’t address it? You don’t even have to talk about your feelings. Respectfully, calmly (the only way a Peacemaker can be) address the issue and ask/say, “I’d like to complete two items on the project,” or “When will your team be ready for my work?” Remember, unless you’re speaking with another Peacemaker, he/she is unlikely to take something personally – so try it!
Organizers – When was the last time you didn’t worry about something getting done or sent an email to staff with a million questions? Stop! You might be “freaking out” your staff unnecessarily and they might think you don’t trust them, they aren’t working fast enough or they aren’t competent. Release the stress for everyone and ask/say, “Appreciate your efforts,” or “You are the expert; let me know the timeline.” The sky isn’t going to fall in!
Revolutionaries – When was the last time you didn’t pull a fire alarm (not literally) at work? Revolutionaries are good at rallying their teams on the fly and the team accepts it. But that style doesn’t resonate with everyone. Some staff likes to engage others, think or get creative before they spring into action. Perhaps ask/say, “How can we help?” or “What are your three main points?” Not everything is life or death at work unless you’re a first responder!
Steamrollers – When was the last time you didn’t over-think something or look for a deeper meaning? I know, inconceivable! Not everything has to be a “first-time ever” endeavor. Yes, that’s how breakthroughs happen in medicine – but sometimes the issues are basic. Release the judgment that “everyone has to be smart on everything” and ask/say, “Who can help you?” or “How much time will this take?” You’ll receive support and commitment upfront!
See how new relationships, ways of doing things, friendships and ideas will appear if you have the courage to try a new management communication style. Who knows, you may even like it! Any self-awareness and shift in a behavior takes heart, time, guts, and a strong will. My challenge to you in 2019 is to go for it. You’ll never know how game-changing it will be unless you take those next steps. And as the song continues:
“Yeah, let yourself go, follow that feeling
Maybe something new is what you’re needing
Like a real life, let your hair down, feel alive”
Happy Managing! Let me know how you are doing!
