It seems to be that the perception of hustling is what is often rewarded, especially with it visible amongst coworkers and leadership. The person in the background delegating or getting more done with time management, such as emailing versus wasting time in meetings is often overlooked. Out of sight, out of mind, maybe?
This has been my experience as a home health physical therapist. I would often have the largest productivity averaging over 40 units per week, and many times skipping case conference meetings at the office by phoning in rather than wasting time. The productivity was not what was rewarded. It was typically the clinicians that complained the most about how busy they were, being over 30 units, and always in the boss’s office making a big deal about driving out of their service area to see a patient. They were the ones visible in the building, with the perception of being hustlers, and the ones awarded plaques at office parties with achievements for going above and beyond the call of duty. Just an interesting observation.
I e seen it everywhere. When I was waiting tables I have a naturally long stride. I had one manager constantly chewing on me for not hustling while 5’ shorty over there moved like Marvin the Martian.
Needless to say, I move at least 50% faster than her tiny, yet frantic, legs would allow.
This article just helped me so much better understand myself and my leadership style. I’ve always been a successful leader but inside I’m so lazy and don’t actually want to have to do anything. I’ve felt guilt about that but maybe that’s actually been a key to success.
It seems to be that the perception of hustling is what is often rewarded, especially with it visible amongst coworkers and leadership. The person in the background delegating or getting more done with time management, such as emailing versus wasting time in meetings is often overlooked. Out of sight, out of mind, maybe?
This has been my experience as a home health physical therapist. I would often have the largest productivity averaging over 40 units per week, and many times skipping case conference meetings at the office by phoning in rather than wasting time. The productivity was not what was rewarded. It was typically the clinicians that complained the most about how busy they were, being over 30 units, and always in the boss’s office making a big deal about driving out of their service area to see a patient. They were the ones visible in the building, with the perception of being hustlers, and the ones awarded plaques at office parties with achievements for going above and beyond the call of duty. Just an interesting observation.
I e seen it everywhere. When I was waiting tables I have a naturally long stride. I had one manager constantly chewing on me for not hustling while 5’ shorty over there moved like Marvin the Martian.
Needless to say, I move at least 50% faster than her tiny, yet frantic, legs would allow.
This article just helped me so much better understand myself and my leadership style. I’ve always been a successful leader but inside I’m so lazy and don’t actually want to have to do anything. I’ve felt guilt about that but maybe that’s actually been a key to success.
I feel you. I watch the hustle and am like, Nope. There has to be an easier way.
This essay reminded me of books I studied years ago about how to apply Sun Tzu's Art of War to business/management leadership.
I'd love to know which book because Sun Tzu was a master at Systems Thinking and Leadership!
Michael, https://www.amazon.com/Sun-Tzu-Art-Business-Principles/dp/0195099966/
and
https://www.amazon.com/Sun-Tzu-Managers-Strategic-Business/dp/1605500305/
come to mind. I think there are some even earlier books but I can't find them on Amazon ATM. That should help get you started.
Thanks!
I love this distinction. Totally stealing it!
Absolutly!