The Distinction Between Management and Leadership

Leadership is not synonymous with management. While management focuses on maintaining the status quo, leadership is about driving progress and propelling things forward. Yes, management alone has it’s place. If your role is that of a manager, I would still ask, “How can I lead?”. This writing isn’t so much a challenge to managers, but leaders who are merely maintaining. You know who you are.

My point is that the key aim in leadership is "movement" - the ability to move people, products, and organizations in a positive direction. A leader's primary aim should be to move, not merely maintain.

The Maintainer Versus the Mover

There are distinct differences between a maintainer and a mover when it comes to leadership. Let's explore these differences:

Sharpening the Craft Versus Developing Character

• A maintainer might focus on sharpening their technical skills and expertise, such as taking classes, seeking feedback, and continuously improving their craft.

• A mover, on the other hand, recognizes that true leadership goes beyond just honing one's skills. They prioritize the development of their character, integrity, and inner strength to sustain the external pressures and demands of leadership.

Fulfilling Assignments Versus Taking Initiative

• A maintainer is content with fulfilling the assignments and tasks handed to them, ensuring they are completed diligently and on time.

• A mover, however, takes the initiative to identify and address issues, proactively seeking out opportunities to grow and contribute beyond their assigned responsibilities.

Identifying Issues Versus Providing Solutions

• A maintainer might be adept at identifying problems and issues, but they often stop there, simply bringing the problems to the attention of others.

• A mover, on the other hand, not only recognizes the issues but also takes the initiative to provide solutions. They don't just point out the problems; they actively work to resolve them.

Receiving Teachings Versus Teaching Themselves

• A maintainer is content with receiving teachings, instructions, and guidance from others, passively absorbing the information provided.

• A mover, however, takes ownership of their own development. They don't wait for others to spoon-feed them; they actively seek out knowledge, meditate on it, and apply it to their own growth and leadership journey.

Showing Up on Time Versus Showing Up Ready

• A maintainer fulfills the basic requirement of showing up on time, ensuring they are present and accounted for.

• A mover, on the other hand, goes beyond just showing up on time. They show up fully prepared, both physically and mentally, ready to engage and contribute effectively.

Reading the Temperature of the Room Versus Setting the Temperature

• A maintainer is adept at reading the room, observing the dynamics and atmosphere, and adjusting their behavior accordingly.

• A mover, however, takes a more proactive approach. They don't just read the temperature of the room; they actively set the tone and create the desired environment, injecting energy, positivity, and a sense of purpose when needed.

Focusing on Position Versus Focusing on Mission

• A maintainer is often preoccupied with their position, title, and role, ensuring they fulfill the duties and responsibilities associated with their specific job or department.

• A mover, on the other hand, maintains a broader perspective. They understand that their role is part of a larger mission, and they are driven by the overall purpose and impact they can have, rather than just the confines of their position.

Embracing the Mover Mindset

To truly excel as a leader, it's essential to shift from a maintainer mindset to a mover mindset. This involves a fundamental change in perspective and approach:

Developing Holistic Leadership

Effective leadership is not just about honing technical skills or fulfilling assigned tasks. It requires a deep investment in personal growth, character development, and a relentless pursuit of progress. Leaders must be willing to go beyond the surface-level and address the deeper aspects of their own development.

Cultivating a Proactive Mindset

Movers don't wait for things to happen; they make things happen. They are constantly on the lookout for opportunities to contribute, solve problems, and drive change. This proactive mindset allows them to stay ahead of the curve and seize the initiative, rather than simply reacting to circumstances.

Embracing a Collaborative Approach

Movers understand that leadership is not about individual accomplishments, but about empowering and elevating the entire team. They foster a collaborative environment, where everyone's contributions are valued and synergies are leveraged to achieve greater collective impact.

Maintaining a Visionary Perspective

Movers keep their eyes fixed on the bigger picture, the overarching mission and purpose that transcends their individual roles. They are able to see beyond the immediate tasks and challenges, and they inspire others to join them in pursuing a shared vision for the future.

Becoming a Transformative Leader

Transitioning from a maintainer to a mover is not an easy task, but it is a necessary step for those who aspire to be truly transformative leaders. By embracing the mover mindset and embodying the principles of holistic development, proactivity, collaboration, and visionary thinking, leaders can unlock their full potential and drive meaningful change in their organizations, communities, and the world at large.