Titles

There is an old question in politics: are you running for office to be something, or to do something?  The distinction is important.  Are you trying to fix an issue or a problem or do you need a title to be self-important?

The same issue happens with guys who end up in law enforcement who don’t have the temperament for dealing with people on the wrong side of situations.  They find that the badge and gun give them the same strength that the liquid courage provides the loud mouths at the bar.  The difference of course is the drunk at the bar, usually isn’t a public servant.  

Similarly, there are people who need the validation from the bosses about their work and this can only happen when they get whatever title they seek.  The job itself is secondary to the goal of getting the job, i.e. backwards.  The job should be the goal, not the title. 

Unfortunately, we all know the guy or girl so desperate to get the job and announce their success that they forget the work that goes with it.  Woops.  Most of them do not understand that their job function as they “climb the ladder” is to serve more people, not be served.  This upside down pyramid of leadership is misunderstood by many managers and those who wish to lead. 

I generally find these people to not have the mental toughness to get things done.  They are the co-workers who ask for help with a task and when it is given, they ignore you and go their own way.  Some folks want to know how to use an umbrella I guess and some are willing to get wet because they ignore the common sense that makes things work.  Truly, I guess common sense is a super power.

Well to those hoping for new titles, or getting them, congratulations.  I hope you are up to the task you have set for yourself.  While you are busy being something, I need to go do some things.