7 basic reasons a person fears success:
1. The fear of making the wrong decision
2. The fear of having to make any decision
3. The fear of disappointing others’ high expectations of you
4. The fear that management will question your decision-making ability
5. The fear that increased success will alienate friends and peers
6. The fear of the unknown
7. The fear of getting to know yourself – your strengths and limitations
Some people avoid challenges. They refuse to step out of their comfort zone. And it may seem surprising because these same people appear self-confident, intelligent and capable. They are friendly and approachable. They have leadership-type qualities everyone admires. Yet, when put into a supervisory position they fall way short.
Don’t let your fear of success keep you from the gratification of moving your company – and yourself – forward. Here are a few guidelines that help overcome the fear of success:
1. Your team
Think of those you manage as a team. They are on your side. Don’t create the dichotomy of “me and them.” Ask their advice, both individually and as a group. Listen to their stories. Understand their ideas. Use their good ideas and share the credit.
2. Encouragement
As manager you uphold and support company policy and carry out directives. You don’t need, however, do be heavy-handed when setting objectives. Talk to people and encourage them. When possible, set the example by not making yourself an exception to the rules.
3. Words
Use good words. Words have a tremendous effect upon people. Harsh, condemnatory and brutish words produce harsh, condemnatory and brutish people. Profanity and slurs divide people and they will begin to avoid you. Words that are thoughtful, insightful, educational and friendly bring others closer to understanding what you want.
4. Straightforwardness
Management isn’t manipulation; it’s being straightforward and honest with people. Use some humor, but don’t overdo it. Don’t crack “inside” jokes or make comments that can be hurtful to another or embarrass the company. Don’t try to be everyone’s friend – just be straightforward.
5. Education
Try new ideas. Increase your management skills through education. Talk to senior managers. Old timers who have been with the company awhile have excellent insight and knowledge about the company’s culture and how things work.
6. Respect
Treat everyone with respect. Respect in the workplace isn’t just good advice, it’s an actual need. When a person does not feel respected for what he or she does productivity drops and problems arise.
7. The Road to Confidence
Everyone has a different management style. What’s yours? Who are you? Good management is about people, not products or services. Be a good person; helpful, content, serious and thoughtful. And strive to be confident. Confidence is an invisible radar everyone picks up on – and emulates.
Filed under: Business, Business growth, CEO, Change management, Corporate Growth, Goals, Hiring, Human Resources, Leadership, Management, Performance Management Tagged: business, change management, goals, hiring, human resources, leadership, management, performance
