Thermostat Leadership is a somewhat ‘tongue in cheek’ leadership lesson. It is simplistic, unique, but a powerful learning opportunity.
Leaders work like thermometers or thermostats. The thermometer leads, works, listens and watches the environment. Just like the little temperature dial works very hard going up and down reading the environment. It isn’t directive; it doesn’t have values, ethics or a vision. It just follows and shares opinions.
The thermometer leader doesn’t set goals, rarely hits targets, accepts mediocrity, peer pressure and poor performance. They follow the trend without thought for results, accomplishment or values. They will be replaced and the organizations they lead become obsolete. James (1:6) illustrates they work “like a wave of the sea blown and tossed”, following the line of least resistance.
The thermostat Leader is significantly different. This leader reads the environment, compares to a goal, reviews a set of values, looks to a vision, then implements changes as necessary.
The thermostat leader will set goals on a continual basis. These goals will be timed, measurable and capable of subdivision. Work time will be allocated to move each task closer to the goal. Plans are made for the important tasks and the goals are followed to achieve the anticipated result.
Thermostat leaders and corporations share a bias for action. When an idea hits, they don’t sit, consider and file it for a better day. They jump in and try the solution. They work with an idea, change and adjust to get action. Good ideas don’t save time or money until implemented. Staff will experiment on a continual basis. Staff consider risk-taking a natural part of the job. Failure is temporary, accepted and to be expected. Learning from mistakes allows opportunity to become better, more effective and more productive.
Leadership is choosing to work like a thermostat making our world a better place.
Yours in Service,
Laurie D. Kennedy
Leadership Coach