Why You Should Stop Being a Boss and Be a Leader

Why You Should Stop Being a Boss and Be a Leader http://www.inc.com/lolly-daskal/the-choice-is-yours-boss-or-leader-pick-one.html

The way you approach being in charge—whether you’re running a corporation, a civic organization, or a neighborhood bake sale—is a huge factor in the group’s achievement. Think about the differences before you step up. Advertisement Every business and work group has a boss, but only some have a leader at the helm.

The differences are clear—and which one your organization has will determine, in large part, what you can achieve and how you will achieve it.

So if you’re in charge, or if you aspire to be, you have a decision to make: Are you going to be the boss or are you going to be the leader?

The choice is entirely up to you, of course—but here are some points to consider as you make up your mind:

A boss drives others; a leader coaches them toward their best performance. A boss instills fear; a leader inspires enthusiasm. A boss blames others; a leader works to help repair the damage and understand what happened so it won’t occur again. A boss thinks in terms of him or herself; a leader thinks in terms of we. A boss knows how it’s done; a leader shows how it’s done. A boss depends on his or her own authority; a leader depends, along with the entire team, on mutual accountability and trust. A boss uses people; a leader is interested in helping them grow and develop. A boss takes the credit; a leader gives credit to others. A boss you is a commander; a leader is more concerned with asking and listening. The boss says Go!; the leader says Let’s go! When you make the choice to be a leader, there are some things you have to give up: Ego, for one. Doing it your way. Always knowing you’re right. Never having your world view challenged.

In exchange, though, you’ll gain a few things: An atmosphere of collegiality and collaboration.

A workplace that people will line up to work at. An authentic authority that comes from who you are, not what you say or do. The chance to change lives—including your own.

You don’t have to look very hard to see that we already have plenty of bosses in the world.

What we’re lacking is great leaders.

Are you ready to choose?

IMAGE: Shutterstock Last updated: Sep 29, 2014

@LollyDaskal

LOLLY DASKAL

Lolly Daskal is the president and CEO of Lead From Within, a global consultancy that specializes in leadership and entrepreneurial development. Daskal’s programs galvanize clients into achieving their best, helping them accelerate and deliver on their professional goals and business objectives. Trust Across America has identified Daskal as a Top 100 Thought Leader in Trustworthy Business Behavior. Lead From Within is a consultancy with global scope, and Daskal’s clients value her exceptional commitment to excellence, integrity, and results.

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