The Autonomy Paradox

There’s a battle raging in today’s workplace, one that’s been simmering since the industrial revolution but has reached a boiling point thanks to COVID-19 and the rise of remote work. This is the leadership paradox: the clash between a leader’s need for control and their team’s craving for autonomy.

First, let’s talk about the leaders. The world is changing at breakneck speed, creating opportunities and chaos in equal measure. Leaders are under immense pressure to deliver consistent results while navigating this volatility. The default reaction? Tighten the grip. Stay closer to the team. Be the all-seeing eye. In an era of constant flux, they’re expected to have their fingers on the pulse, ready to pivot at a moment’s notice. Control is their security blanket.

Now, flip the script to the employees. They’re also feeling the heat from this rapid change. They’re ditching old methods and scrambling to upskill. But they’re not just juggling tasks—they’re juggling expectations. Richard Ryan and Edward Deci nailed it back in the '80s: People find fulfillment not through rewards, but through autonomy. They want to call the shots, not just take orders.

So, here we are: leaders clinging to control and teams desperate for independence. How do we resolve this paradox?

Embrace the Tension. Stop pretending this isn’t a problem. Accept that both control and autonomy are necessary and figure out how they can coexist. Now is the time to step back with your team and have an honest conversation about pain points.

Create Convergence Points. Autonomy doesn’t mean isolation. Teams want to be coached, not micromanaged. How can you create forums where people want to come together to share insights, successes, and failures? How can you co-create rituals that inspire coaching and feedback?

Lay Your Cards on the Table. Leaders, be upfront about your need for information. Make it clear what you need, when you need it, and why it is important. Look for ways to make it simple, or better yet, to automate it. Transparency builds trust and helps everyone understand the balance you’re trying to strike.

The future of work isn’t about choosing between control and autonomy. It’s about mastering the art of balance. Leaders who crack this code will not only survive but thrive in the modern workplace.