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What makes a "good boss?" Dictionary.com points out a few ideas related to this in its entry for the four-letter-word, "boss." This individual "makes decisions, exercises authority, dominates...superintends workers...is master over others...manages, directs, controls..." My mother was a bakery/deli manager for a substantial chain of grocery stores here in the USA; and I watched her perform her duties as the boss by leading by example. She never asked a worker to do something she was not willing to do herself. She could be stern but was discerning with those in her sphere. My father was sole proprietor of a tree service, which has its own set of arduous demands and onerous decisions. He too was a dirt-under-the-nails kind of working boss; and I spent much of my childhood on the job with him, banter and humor were staples interwoven with safety and efficiency.
Resourcefulness, creativity, and wise compassion may not come instantly to mind for some when they consider a boss; but I've witnessed these traits play out in groups to great avail. In my military career, having learned from my parents and others whose dominion over my work brought lessons about followship, fidelity, and faith, I sought to be the kind of leader whose calloused hands and determined spirit inspired accountability and eagerness in my airmen. I had operated my own business prior to enlisting, and the lessons I learned during that decade of my life solidified those of my youth.
I think, essentially, a leader is a learner - one who studies people. What motivates someone to work effectively for a boss? I believe it is a matter of concern expressed and consistency exemplified. Balance is crucial between the heart and head when putting hands to service and commanding a group of folks whose backgrounds may infinitely diverse. Work ethic, cultural inputs, expectations of self and others, clear communication, and boundaries are some of the things that factor into a positive work environment and fulfillment in one's career at any level.
Whether or not you have served in a leadership position, you are the boss of your wellness. What items you choose to partake, how you move and rest, even the way you think - all these things factor into the results you see in your body and mind. Whether you are a good one or a bad one, you're living in your body like a boss.
Jotting with Johnna:
- Are you accountable to show up for yourself, leading your life with intention?
- Whose influence has been forceful in your decisions (media, parents, significant other)?
- Is it time you "cleaned house" and took a greater leadership role in your nutrition and fitness?
- What one thing will you do today to assert your sovereignty over your food and activity?
- If you had to write a performance evaluation for your mental, physical, spiritual, and emotional wellness, what would be your
- strengths?
- weaknesses?
- areas of improvement?
- objectives for the coming season?
Remember: you are so very worthy of the realization that you alone are responsible for the management of your wellness. We all do well to glean what we can from the wisdom and experience of others, but in the end, it's your story - your bottom line - for which you will have to give an account. Write your own Wellness Script and watch the profit and loss shift in your favor.
Stay tuned. Stay focused. Stay well. ...Like a boss!
