Micro-managing has never been my preferred style given two factors. First, early in my life I had great managers! The way Fred, Bob, Michael, and others modelled behaviors that empowered and inspired have stood the test of time. To each I will be forever in their debt. Two, I hate being micro-managed.
As good as each was, I still fall to the temptation of micro-managing every so often. Most of the time I easily catch myself. On other occasions, the other day being one, I catch myself with a simple question, “Really?”
Without very little thought, I slip into telling the person I just empowered to solve a problem what the outcome of their solution should include. I trust them, but not really! The irony is that my distrust is not only with the young. More time than I like admitting, I turn to Divinity and in the context of one of individuals I am accusing, I leave the follow suggestion (demand). “When he’s judged, let the verdict be, ‘Guilty,’ and when he prays, let his prayer turn to sin.” (Psalm 109.7)
Three observations for reflection.
I believe that Divinity is smart enough to ignore my attempts at micro-managing. The real harm is not on the one I am accusing but to myself.
Statements of micro-managing are also admissions of what I would do if I had the power and ability to act. One should reflect carefully on actions that are exactly the opposite of what we hope for ourselves. I love charity, compassion, and fresh starts. I often enjoy the benefit of another’s doubt. I want mercy to take precedence over justice.
If I am going to give others what I want and need, it is going to take more than the absence of negative actions. My silence must be replaced by a tangible embrace of unconditional love. It is in action that we tell the true story of our hearts and minds.
I want to let go and collaborate — trusting that our actions individually and together will make this world a better place.
