In today's dynamic work environment, it is easy for management and leaders to purely focus on managing teams. This often turns into covering only the practicalities of planning and resourcing, while doing the motions of one-to-one check-ins. However, understanding the nuances between leadership and management is crucial for fostering a thriving workplace.

This post explores why the leadership component of management is often overlooked, integrating insights from Daniel Pink’s Drive Theory and Self-Determination Theory (Ryan et al.). By examining the principles of Mastery, Purpose, Autonomy, and Relatedness, leaders can gain valuable insights into motivating and developing their staff, enhancing wellbeing, building high-performing teams, and retaining talent.

This post is for team leaders, managers and HR professionals committed to creating effective teams and engaging work environments.