In my career I have worked for many different kinds of bosses. Some narcissistic, some servants; some who care, some who could care less; some great visionaries, some who changed with the wind; some with great integrity, some not so much. But all of them have been driven. That's why they became leaders.
If you have ever worked for a micro-manager, you know that it can be miserable. I have always worked best when a boss makes it clear my responsibilities and expectations, as they fit with the overall mission - and let's me go do it. A supervisor who gives me freedom to manage my own time, my approach, and can measure my results. It's almost like - Tell me what to do and then get out of my way.
If you are fortunate to work for someone who allows you to have purpose, be creative, take responsibility, and even have the freedom to make mistakes - then you are truly blessed. But even with all of that, we need to know how we are doing and whether or not we are doing a good job.
If you're an owner, manager, or have any supervision over someone else - don't assume those who work for you know how you feel about their performance. They need to hear from you. Not based on a rare high or a "bad" day but based on a pattern of performance that you observe. Be genuine but every so often they need a pat on the back.
As Christ-followers, though we want and need feedback from our earthly managers, we must remember who we ultimately work for. No earthly affirmation would be more important that knowing that the Lord would say, Well done. In fact, when the Lord grants us the peace of knowing we have served Him well, it matters so much less what man thinks. Our greatest motivation of what people think about us should primarily revolve around our testimony for Jesus Christ and whether or not they think higher of the Lord because of what they see in us.
Spend some time in prayer with the Lord. Honestly evaluate your attitude, effort, performance, results, and integrity at work. And if you can say as the Apostle Paul did when his work was called into question: ...Our conscience testifies that we have conducted ourselves in the world, and especially in our relations with you, in the holiness and sincerity that are from God. We have done so not according to worldly wisdom but according to God's grace. 2 Cor. 1:12 then you can most certainly give yourself a pat on the back...in His grip.
Colossians 3:23; Matthew 5:16
Coach's tip - Your smile is your logo, your personality is your business card, and the way you make others feel is your trademark.
Tip by Jay Danzie
Wits End - What's Going Into Your Head?