Wrong and Strong vs Right and Weak
Bill Clinton famously said during his term as Pres that during times of uncertainty it’s better to be wrong and strong than right and weak.
I think many business leaders would agree with this, as would individuals involved in any activity where winning is dependent upon market share. The logic being that there is only so much out there and if we don’t go after it (and get it), then others will. And then we’ll become the loser because they have more than we do.
Those who believe that there are unlimited resources, or at least enough for everyone to have a fair share take a different approach. They are less confrontational, more likely to show strong empathy, and recognize that their success isn’t dependent upon another’s failures.
If you are working in an environment that is based upon Bill Clinton’s logic, but are more inclined to accept the premise that there is ample for everyone; it can be very disheartening. It will likely cause you to have dissonance about what you are doing and as a result you will be less successful. This can create health and personal satisfaction issues.
Take an honest look at your place of employment and ask yourself if you share it’s basic “operating assumptions”. If you don’t – GET OUT! Otherwise you may end up putting in long hours trying to force success when it’s never going to happen.
john
Tags: "John M McKee", coach, leadership, management style, success
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