I work with individuals at all levels of leadership, ranging from C-Suite to frontline service folks.
In one of my mentoring sessions, the leader I was working with emphasized the significance of freedom and independence in her role, mentioning it was the primary reason for her long-standing commitment to the company.
Her contentment stemmed from the fact that her own leader did not micro-manage her and in turn she did not micro-manage her team.
She followed that thought with the frustration that she and her team miss deadlines and even with the best of intentions, are always playing catch up.
I emphasized that freedom and independence are incredibly powerful forces, providing the potential for great heights but also exposing one to significant lows.
What creates the balance? Why is this leader so frustrated despite having the freedom and independence in her job to work and lead her team the way she wants?
Freedom
- The power or right to act, speak, or think as one wants without hindrance or restraint.
- The power of self-determination is attributed to the will; the quality of being independent of fate or necessity.
The First Amendment protects some of our most cherished rights, including religious liberty, free speech, a free press, the right to assemble, and the right to petition our government.
Are those rights without hindrance or restraint? Does freedom mean free from responsibility?
It is pretty obvious that there are individuals that believe exactly that. They have a right to say and do what they want. Storm the Capitol, spread hate, show a disregard for human dignity.
Freedom without accountability becomes anarchy.
I know I took a big leap from not being micro-managed to storming the Capitol. But it all comes down to the same principle and belief.
The essence of freedom lies in the power of choice, not in the freedom from responsibility. Freedom is not an all-or-nothing concept; it carries substantial responsibility, and these responsibilities, in turn, result in accountability.
During mentorship sessions and leadership training, I am constantly reminding leaders that it is a privilege to lead.
If you can’t accept the responsibility that goes with that, then don’t be a leader.
If you can’t hold yourself accountable, what gives you the confidence in your ability to hold others accountable? Even if you tried, why would they listen when you struggle to do the same for yourself?
After my mentee experienced an ‘ah-ha’ moment in our session, I gave her some homework. She was tasked with developing an accountability framework for both herself and her team. This structure will empower her to leverage the benefits of freedom and enjoy her independence.
Looking for a mentor or leadership development? Send me an email at tamara@tknappadvisory.com
