Be at the helm, but not the helmsman
I was wrestling with a title like, "Be the captain of the ship but not its driver," but my U.S. Navy brothers and sisters would disown me for that. You steer or pilot a ship, or you're its helmsman. In the Army we have the position titled TC meaning Truck/Tank/Track Commander. This person is responsible for all that the vehicle does yet does not drive it. It is because the role of the TC or leader requires them to see the greater team and integrate all elements within it toward a common objective. While they may occupy only one vehicle, they are likely responsible for many.
I've seen some lousy TCs in my day. I've been a lousy TC myself at times - a backseat driver on a grand scale, instructing my driver where to turn or position the vehicle instead of focusing on my intent and leading the greater enterprise. I've even picked up a wrench, driven the vehicle or fired the machine gun. While it was required from time to time, I rarely measured up to the proficiency level of my people. Moreover, it was not my role. A helmsman is a person who steers a ship (or a boat if you want to get under the skin of a sailor!). While assisted by others, this person is focused on a specific tactical task of operating a vehicle or vessel.
Leaders, out of guilt, sometimes feel that they must be the helmsman. Perhaps they want to show their subordinates that they too excel at tactical tasks. Indeed, in organizations which are very lean you'll find leaders doing tactical work - player coaches. But, this should be the exception and not the rule. It is truly the role of leaders to let go of the steering wheel and command the greater operation. 'See' beyond the horizon where others cannot and prepare for transitions, bring other assets to bear at the right moments and focus on issuing intent to guide the team.
Simon Sinek states it very well, "you are not a salesman, you lead people who sell." Replace 'salesman' with whatever position you fill in your company and consider your role at the helm. Be more aware of when you are acting as a helmsman and ask yourself if you have it right. Be at the helm for sure, but leave the driving or sailing to someone else. Steer the enterprise, not the ship.
Make it Personal!
Rob
Rob Campbell