# Children or Adults By:: [[Brian Heath]] 2023-03-30 As a manager, you have two choices when working with your team. You could treat them like a child, "protect" them from the truth, and assume they can't be trusted. Or, you could treat them like an adult, share with them your truth, and assume that they are capable humans. This may sound ridiculous, but most managers instinctually treat their team like children. Think about it. Have any of your managers shared details about what is going on and the conflicts at the higher levels? Have they been honest about their doubts and personal feelings? Have they connected to you as a fellow human capable of making adult choices? Most managers attempt to hide failures and troubles from their team to keep morale high and people on the assembly line. They believe that showing weakness or vulnerability is a sign they are bad leaders and managers. This is completely backward. Showing that you are human, that you don't have it all figured out, and that you are in it together beyond the organizational failings creates trust and loyalty far beyond pretending to be a demigod of managerial buffoonery. Give your team more credit as they know what is going on, they want to see if you are with them or against them. So, instead of reviewing an individual's performance versus expectations and ignoring the absurdity of the organization, take a moment to tell them that you want to see them succeed regardless of what that means for the organization. If that means that they want to be a golfer, work with them to figure out how they can spend more time on the course and less time at work. You'll be amazed by the results. However, there is one key caveat: you have to mean it. If you don't authentically believe in finding solidarity with your fellow humans, you should continue with the bullshit. Just try not to complain too loudly about workers these days as the tide is turning and they are working you as much as you are working them. #### Related Items [[Work]] [[Management]] [[Solidarity]] [[The Human Condition]] [[Leadership]] [[Organizational Analytics]]