This is a follow on from our previous post - You won’t change the world if you’re not organised. Again, this was originally published on the now archived Alternative Estuary blog.
I think it's important to recognise the difference between leaders and rulers.
In my experience in building work, leaders are inevitable and necessary. The role will change depending on who has the most experience and knowledge of a particular task.
The plumber is the leader whilst we are laying the pipes, and the groundworker takes over to build the foundation. (Pure Anarchism occurs later, in the pub!)
In a healthy team, this happens quite naturally. No one has to say anything.
A ruler, that is; one who stands at the top of a fixed hierarchy, is a whole different animal. As you say, to some extent this is necessary for larger projects. However, in the context of major construction work, the experience is usually a profoundly unpleasant work environment. Usually. I have come across exceptions.
It takes an extraordinary level of determination and humility to pull it off, but it can be done.
It's as if you read my mind... 😂
I think it's important to recognise the difference between leaders and rulers.
In my experience in building work, leaders are inevitable and necessary. The role will change depending on who has the most experience and knowledge of a particular task.
The plumber is the leader whilst we are laying the pipes, and the groundworker takes over to build the foundation. (Pure Anarchism occurs later, in the pub!)
In a healthy team, this happens quite naturally. No one has to say anything.
A ruler, that is; one who stands at the top of a fixed hierarchy, is a whole different animal. As you say, to some extent this is necessary for larger projects. However, in the context of major construction work, the experience is usually a profoundly unpleasant work environment. Usually. I have come across exceptions.
It takes an extraordinary level of determination and humility to pull it off, but it can be done.