We use the word “manage” to describe our actions on all sorts of objects. We manage projects. We manage time. We manage resources. And we manage people.
Or do we?
Check out the definition of “manage” at the Merriam Webster site. The definitions that seem most relevant are “to handle or direct with a degree of skill” and “to work upon or try to alter with a purpose.”
When you go to work, do you want to be handled? Do you want to be altered? Do you want to be directed? Or do you want to be respected, inspired and given what you need to be your best?
When we manage time, money and material resources, we can cut, add or reallocate from one project or priority to another. None of that is done with the slightest bit of care or concern for the resource that is being managed. You don’t worry about the implication for the dollar when it is moved from funding project A to project B. You don’t worry about the effect on the minute when you decide to spend it with your kids instead of watching TV. The dollar and the minute and the gallon of gas and the roll of toilet paper are objects. They do not have feelings, desires or aspirations. They are not capable of managing themselves.
People are not objects. People are not resources.
Do you feel like a resource that should just be moved around to fit someone else’s de-personalized plan? Is that how you will feel a sense of achievement and personal value?
We don’t really manage people. We can’t. The word just doesn’t apply. People, unlike objects, are self-powered. In order to get them to generate value for you, you must inspire them. You must make your aims their aims. You must help them feel good about what they do.
Manage is just the wrong idea and it’s time we got rid of it.
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Adam, love his post!! And couldn’t agree more. Thanks for sharing!
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