If this one thing is missing, you are controlled by others
Managers often find themselves in a situation where they only react rather than act. However, our guest author Volkmar Völzke knows that there are ways to put a stop to this "external control" and provides an impulse for success.
In my discussions with managers - whether on the Management Board, in divisional management or on the way there - I come across one thought again and again: "I always have something to do - but I always ask myself I often wonder whether I'm heading in the right direction at all. Or whether I'm just reacting."
If the active control is missing
This statement is not an isolated case. It is a clear warning signal for a deficiency that many people underestimate - and which nevertheless has far-reaching consequences: a lack of clarity. Because if you don't actively control, you are automatically controlled. Not necessarily by a person - but by calendars, routines, expectations and systems.
And ambitious managers with high expectations of themselves often fall into this trap. They have big goals, no doubt. But the concrete picture of the next development step - for themselves, the team or the company - often remains vague. Or it has been drawn at some point, but fades in everyday life between meetings, emails and immediate tasks.
What falls by the wayside is your own control effect - and therefore your influence. Not from one day to the next. But gradually. With every further spontaneous reaction. With every seemingly small adjustment to other people's priorities. With every "I'll take it from here".
Leadership without clarity is like sailing without a compass: you may be on the move, but you don't know where you're going - and whether it's the right direction. Clarity is not a luxury for quiet times. Especially in complex, dynamic environments, it is the prerequisite for effectiveness - and also for greater ease. Because clarity reduces unnecessary decisions, protects your energy and strengthens your leadership role.
Create clarity
The important thing is that there is usually no lack of know-how or commitment. But rather a conscious focus. Deciding what counts today - and what doesn't (yet).
And the following applies: What is not clear will not be decided. What is not decided will not be implemented. What is not implemented does not help anyone.
So here is an idea for direct application: Take 10 minutes today and answer three questions - in writing, all to yourself:
- What do I want to have achieved in six months - for myself and my team?
- What is my most important contribution to this - beyond the day-to-day business?
- What is blocking me the most right now - and how can I change that today?
You don't have to turn everything upside down. But clarity begins with a thought - and grows with every conscious step in the right direction.
So, are you creating more clarity today or are you continuing as before? That is a clear decision.
To the author:
Volkmar Völzke is a success maximizer. Book author. Consultant. Coach. Speaker. www.volkmarvoelzke.ch
