Directions vs DIRECTION

Directions vs Direction

One little letter different in the word, but a vast difference in the world of leadership.

These slight distinctions, these slight shifts - matter.

When leaders provide DIRECTIONS, they -

Issue instructions and demands to accomplish results based on control and compliance.

When leaders provide DIRECTION, they -

Offer guidance and support to achieve outcomes based on alignment and commitment. Direction that involves frameworks and development fosters personal ownership, innovative problem solving, and sustainable engagement.

It's the difference between:

• managing tasks, metrics, and checklists.

– versus –

• sharing a vision, purpose, and value.

The small distinction of the one letter 's' at the end of the otherwise exact same word, greatly changes the impact. Making those slight one-degree shifts in our leadership approach can really matter. The situation dictates, but, when the opportunity exists, it may be worth that one minute to pause, breathe, and reframe our leadership approach to consider Directions vs Direction.