Are You A Clock Builder Or A Time Teller?

As managers, we often find ourselves juggling multiple tasks, ensuring that everything runs smoothly and that targets are met. But what if I told you that there’s a simpler, more effective way to lead — one that not only relieves the burden on us but also empowers our teams to excel?

I want to share with you a concept that has revolutionized my approach to management: the idea of building a clock. Let me explain.

Think of your team as a clock. In the past, I was the only one who truly understood how the clock worked. I held all the knowledge, and as a result, I couldn’t afford to take a day off. But over time, I realized that this approach was not sustainable. I needed to empower my team to understand the inner workings of the clock so that it could keep ticking, even when I wasn’t there.

So, we set out to build a clock together. We invested time and effort in developing our team’s skills, fostering a culture of collaboration and learning. We established clear processes and communication channels, ensuring that everyone was on the same page. And now, we’re in the process of empowering our team.

Soon, I’m confident that higher management will notice the difference. They won’t need to ask me directly what the time is — they’ll simply look at the clock we’re building together.

This experience has taught me a valuable lesson: true leadership is not about hoarding knowledge or micromanaging every detail. It’s about empowering your team to succeed, even in your absence. It’s about building a clock that can stand the test of time.

So, I encourage you to take a step back and ask yourself: are you building a clock or merely telling time? By empowering your team and fostering a culture of collaboration, you can unlock the full potential of your organization and pave the way for lasting success.

Here’s to building clocks together ;)