A thermostat sets the temperature, whereas a thermometer merely reflects its environment. Leader heroes are like thermostats setting an appropriate and successful climate. These thermostats/leader heroes are responsible for setting the vision for an organization. The climate they set needs to be inclusive of trust and respect of others; they know that without either, communication will break down and the climate will be uncomfortable for everyone. Whether in calm times or times of high stress, leader heroes seek better ways to show others that their best days are yet to come.
Like is possible with a thermostat, when a leader hero perceives the climate is no longer comfortable for everyone, he or she will take action and adjust the climate as needed to ensure an appropriate comfort level is provided for all. Knowing when to change the climate setting is critical. Leader heroes can sense when such changes are needed and take the necessary actions to make them happen.
Other leaders, like thermometers, reflect and understand the climate and are entrusted to achieve and maintain the highest levels of efficiency and effectiveness to accomplish the vision of the organization as set by the thermostat/leader hero. These thermometers/leaders develop the mission steps necessary to maintain the climate using their followers and processes. Although these leaders are not responsible for changing the climate, they can and often do affect whether or not the current climate is the correct one needed for the good of the organization. This is frequently the level where communication problems happen, thus alerting the leader hero if the climate is in need of change.
So, are you a thermostat or a thermometer person?
Click on the "Thermostat Living" tab on this website to schedule a meeting time to learn how to change the emotional climate inside yourself and around you, at home, at work and in your everyday interactions.
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