Can’t Have it Both Ways

“I’m just doing my job.”
“It’s the company policy.”
“The boss says so.”
“I’ll get back to you; I need permission from the higher-ups.”

Who hasn’t used one of these lines? They’re quite useful when you’re in a pickle, being pushed by a customer, or need bureaucratic protection for a mistake.

“Use your best judgment.”
“Run with it and get back to us with options.”
“You can figure it out; I trust you.”
“It’s up to you; come up with a solution.”

Who doesn’t appreciate autonomy, empowerment, and trust—the kind that is implied in these lines? People like us desire the type of work environment that sees our gifts and understands our value.

You can’t have it both ways.

Either work toward the second set of lines, or settle for the first.