Ability vs. Authority

In my role, I often have the unique opportunity to simply listen to my coworkers. One thing that I have observed is that many people in the workplace labor everyday under the assumption that they have little to no influence. Most employees, if they are not in a position of leadership (or sometimes even if they are), falsely assume that because of their lack of authority, they do not have the ability to effect positive change in their organization and in the organization’s initiatives.

This is unfortunate, and it is faulty thinking. The other day I was listening to a podcast - an interview with Todd Weiden by John Eades. Weiden illustrated this truth by telling of Michael Jordan’s unique ability to elevate his team’s performance. In the Chicago Bulls organization, he was not the owner, nor the coach, yet he elevated his team’s performance beyond any team in the league. How did he do this? He effected change out of his ability. In other words, he didn’t allow his lack of authority to impact his ability to create a cultural of improvement. Rather, he committed to using his ability to perform at the highest level, earning the right to be heard with his teammates, coach, and owner. And what was the result? Championships. Lots of them.

You have the same opportunity. You may not be in a position of authority. But no one has the unique ability - talents, skill set, and personality - that you have. You may not be a Michael Jordan type talent, but you are you, and no one else is. Leverage that ability - your unique ability - to earn credibility. Do all that you can do with excellence - go above and beyond. Keep getting better. Keep learning. Control what you can control, courageously making the most of every opportunity, and one day you will realize that you have become an influential leader, effecting positive change in every facet of your organization.