Preparation vs. "Winging It"

One size does not fit all

There is a question sometimes asked among writers: “Are you a plotter or a pantster?”

A “plotter” creates an outline and maps out their novel before they start writing. A “pantster” just starts writing and is “flying by the seat of their pants.”

The thing is, both types of writers can be successful, and both types often find trying to work the other way unsuccessful.

As leaders, we need to take people from where they are to where we want them to be. We might be meticulous planners who map out the route in detail. Or we might be adventurous, instinctive, “let’s see what happens if we go this way” leaders.

Both can be successful, but both may find the other method doesn’t work for them.

Leaders who are on the extremes of these styles attract and retain very different types of people on their teams. Leaders who can lead in the style that works for them BUT ALSO provide the structure or freedom that people with the other style need can lead more diverse groups of people in a wider variety of situations.

Which way works best for you?

(Photo by Kelly Sikkema on Unsplash)