Parenting vs. Managing
Posted: January 27, 2005 Filed under: Uncategorized 1 Comment »Lately, I’ve done a lot of observing — of very different management styles and very different parenting styles. I’ve seen some correlations that are too frightening to let slide…
1) Some managers give every one around them the same direction – hoping that one comes through.
Some parents shout at their kids with directions and criticisms hoping that they will consider obeying occasionally.
2) Some managers talk about what they plan to do until it’s too late to do it.
Some parents talk about their kids’ issues but never find the energy to deal with them.
3) Some managers think a stern tone will get them respect and the best result.
Some parents actually believe that yelling gets them respect and compliance. (yeah, right)
4) Some managers respect every person they come in contact with on a daily basis (unless proven wrong) and get everything done with a smile and pride of workmanship. And respect in return.
Some parents respect their kids, manage the bad stuff (with a sense of humor) and get the best attitudes to show through.
These observations are provocative. I wonder…do ineffective managers ever stop long enough to assess how their style is affecting their goals? (I certainly did, and now I no longer try to manage people!) And, do parents who “parent” in correlative ways ever stop and wonder why their children continue to misbehave? I would like to know more…