Managers do things right. Leaders do the right things.

February 17, 2025

It’s Tactical Tuesday!

Here is the Thought, Tip, and Tool of the week...

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The Thought

Did you know 58% of managers never receive formal leadership training? Many fall into the trap of managing processes instead of leading people.

Peter Drucker famously said:

"Management is doing things right; leadership is doing the right things."

Picture this: Your team is hacking through a dense jungle.

A manager sharpens the machetes, organizes the group, and ensures progress is efficient and measured.
A leader climbs the tallest tree, looks around, and realizes… we’re in the wrong jungle.

Efficiency matters. But if you’re heading in the wrong direction, speed only gets you lost faster.

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The Tip

Remember to…balance execution with direction. Ask yourself:
✅ Am I focused on efficiency… or effectiveness?
✅ When was the last time I stepped back to assess the bigger picture?
✅ Do my people see me as a taskmaster… or a visionary?

Managers focus on the day-to-day. Leaders ensure the day-to-day aligns with the future. Find the balance.

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The Tool

Short Video: Manager vs. Leader: Managers do things right. Leaders do the right things.

Here's why understanding the difference matters:

1. Management is Efficiency
Getting things done right.

2. Leadership is Vision
Doing the right things.

3. Managers Sharpen Tools
Ensuring the team works smoothly.

4. Leaders Set Direction
Climbing trees to see the bigger picture. (Jungle story in the video)

5. Management is Execution
Focused on the present tasks.

6. Leadership is Strategy
Planning for the future.

7. Managers Maintain Order
Keeping everything in line.

8. Leaders Inspire Change
Encouraging innovation and growth.

9. Management is Control
Monitoring progress closely.

10. Leadership is Empowerment
Trusting the team to excel.

Balance both roles for success.
Be a manager when needed.
Be a leader always.

Lead your team out of the wrong jungle.

Watch the short video now

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Leadership Question of the week…

Here is the top question this week from our 101 Leadership Questions download. Don’t have this download? Get instant access here.

❓What do you need from me to be at your best?
❓Are there any barriers that affect your productivity?
❓What can we do to remove those barriers?

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Activity of the week…

Here is the top activity this week from our 52 Team Meeting Activity Cards. Don’t have these download? Get your physical copy here OR a printable version as part of the Complete Leader Package.

Watch the activity description of the “STORYBOARD”

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Thank you again for being a great leader out there!

-Dwight & Jess

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