Which Identity?

Do you identify more deeply with your cause, or your role?

A large majority of leaders have their sense of self tied up in their work. Often that serves us quite well when it allows our jobs to be an expression of our core beliefs and abilities. But it always comes with the danger of being unable to differentiate ourselves from our roles.

During a PACE call with the leader of a growing national network yesterday we explored the difference between leaders who identify mostly with the cause of their organization as opposed to those who identify with the work of leading.

Here’s what I’ve been reflecting on about these types, which I confess is very preliminary and may not be fully true.

Both have advantages but the differences are intriguing.

Cause identity leaders are absolutely passionate about the particular issue they are addressing and accumulate impressive specific expertise. They are in it for the long haul and open to changing their leadership style and priorities to serve the evolving needs of the organization over time. They may be more likely to be founders, and they value loyalty highly.

Role identity leaders are drawn to leadership itself. They may change organizations more frequently and become highly capable in aspects of leadership that they can apply in a variety of settings. The ability to embrace different causes using their proven skills and tools enables them to be effective more broadly. They tend to embrace whatever gets the best results.

Of course, none of us is all one or the other and we may change due to time and circumstances. But I think there is something here worth considering.

What motivates you as a leader?

I have the privilege of working with cause leaders, role leaders, and many who are in between. In my own life I think I’ve been back and forth between them and now find myself with the specific cause of healthy leadership which I can apply in several organizations in my role as a consultant.

Is there are particular organization, issue, or location that you are drawn to? Would you gladly give the rest of your life to make a difference there?

Or are you committed to human flourishing more generally and willing to bring the best of yourself wherever you can play a part? Does the idea of learning more about yourself as a leader and taking on new challenges have more appeal at this point than any specific cause?

As is so often the case, I learn as much from the leaders I serve as they ever do from me. If you’d like some support and guidance in making sense of your own leadership contact me to schedule your own PACE call or a group session for your team.