Dr. Darnell A. Durrah

Personally, I have an issue with the term boss. I believe in many organizations the word is used extremely loosely.

Additionally, the term and or concept does not lead to cohesion. Rather it fosters compliance. I’m not suggesting compliance is a bad thing either. However, I do believe a boss mentality results in more job dissatisfaction than the satisfaction of employees long term.

Let’s look closer at the word “boss.”

As a noun, it means, “a person who is in charge of a worker, group, or organization.”

As a verb it means, “give (someone) orders in a domineering manner.”

Now, the term Leader is defined as, “the person who leads or commands a group, organization, or country.”

As for me, I prefer to be and or work with other leaders. I find it challenging to work with individuals who think they are a boss in an organization. I truly believe this is one of the biggest misconceptions individuals in Leadership have. Falsely believing they have more power than they do. In comparison, a good leader understands that she or he is merely responsible for the results from the area they lead within the organization.

In a state or federal government entity, the real boss is the American people. Please never forget this!

I have been working for over two decades now. One of the first things I always do is read SOPs, regulations, etc. as it pertain to whichever organization. Not once have I ever seen the word boss! In contrast, I have seen the word Leader repeatedly. It is time individuals who have been honored with an opportunity to lead begin doing just that, Leading!

Now, what if more Leaders adopted a Leader mentality vs a boss mentality? Do you think that would change your satisfaction with your current situation? If you’re a Leader currently, which mentality have you adopted?

I would love to hear your thoughts.