In my years in business and churches I have known many people who claim to be leaders, but they are actually nothing more than controllers of people. There is a huge difference in leading and controlling.  Previously I wrote about leaders leading followers.  Read that post HERE.

The differences between leading and controlling are almost exact opposites:

Characteristics of leading people:

• Encourages creativity
• Develops people rather than programs
• Builds healthy relationships with followers
• Models a healthy way
• More focused on needs of followers
• People follow by choice
• Empowers people

Characteristics of controlling people:

• Stifles personal growth
• Discourages creativity
• Keeps followers at a distance
• Insists on a set way
• More focused on needs of the controller
• People follow by force
• Devours people

It may be easier to simply make people do what you want them to do and have them carry out your agenda, but leadership is more of an art than that.  Leading people effectively means helping people with different skills, talents and interests and leading them to accomplish an established vision and goals.

Have you ever worked for a controller?

Be honest with yourself, are you leading people, or do you claim to be a leader, but you are really a controller?

Related posts:

1. Successfully Leading Change
2. 5 Tips For Leading Strong Willed People
3. What Do You Do When You Work with a Controlling Leader?
4. Leading From A Position Of Fear Or Security
5. 5 Examples of Leading Outside the Norm