I’m not sure where this originated, so I’m unable to properly credit it - but here are eight reasons why a good manager needs to be like a farmer..

We often read and learn about different management styles - Authoritative, Consultative, Laissez-faire etc. and these are linked to volume/type of work, organisation culture, goals, and the personalities of those being managed.

What about other constraints?

There’s that one person on the team who annoys you - and seems to antagonise others too.  Let’s sort it out. It’s always tough dealing with difficult people, but before you take action there is one very important question to ask - “Is it me?”

Diversity is important, not for political correctness reasons, but because by valuing differences and bringing the strengths of those differences into our daily lives the whole is greater than the sum of the parts. I love the way this is demonstrated by the fable ‘The Animal School’ by Dr RH Reeves.

I am your constant companion.

I am your greatest helper or your heaviest burden.

I will push you onward or drag you down to failure.

I am completely at your command.