Management, leadership, and stewardship are three distinct concepts, each with unique implications for organisational life. Management is about control, ensuring things work as they should. Leadership, on the other hand, is about direction and purpose, guiding the organisation towards its goals. Stewardship, a less commonly discussed concept, is about care and cultivation, nurturing the organisation’s potential.
These concepts are not mutually exclusive; they can be seen as layers within an organisation. Management forms the foundation, providing stability and efficiency. Leadership builds upon this, offering vision and strategic direction. Stewardship represents the highest level, fostering an environment where the organisation’s full potential can be realised.
However, modern organisations often overemphasise management at the expense of leadership and, particularly, stewardship. This imbalance can lead to a lack of innovation and resilience, stifling an organisation’s growth and adaptability. To rectify this, organisations need to cultivate stewardship, nurturing their collective capacity for creativity, adaptability, and resilience.
Stewardship requires a shift in perspective, viewing the organisation not as a machine to be controlled, but as a living system to be nurtured. This involves fostering a sense of community, promoting collaboration, and valuing each individual’s unique contributions. By doing so, organisations can unlock their full potential, achieving not only economic success but also contributing to the wellbeing of society and the planet.
Go to source article: https://medium.com/@michelleholliday/on-management-leadership-stewardship-ddb9c8cc6034