Throughout my professional journey, I have encountered various leadership styles, some inspiring and empowering, while others have stifled growth and creativity. One particularly memorable experience involved working under a micromanaging leader who, despite their best intentions, hindered my progress and dampened my enthusiasm.

The leader, let’s call them ‘Mr. Smith’, was a highly experienced individual with a proven track record of success. However, their approach to leadership was heavily centralized, with an emphasis on strict control and oversight. Every decision, no matter how minor, required their approval, and they were constantly monitoring my every move.

While Mr. Smith’s micromanagement stemmed from a desire to ensure quality and maintain high standards, it had a detrimental impact on my autonomy and ability to develop my skills. I felt like my expertise and judgment were constantly being questioned, and my confidence in my abilities began to erode.

This experience aligns with the concept of ‘self-efficacy’, as proposed by Albert Bandura. Self-efficacy refers to an individual’s belief in their capabilities to perform a task or achieve a goal. In my case, Mr. Smith’s micromanaging approach undermined my self-efficacy, making me doubt my abilities and stifling my motivation.

Moreover, the experience resonates with the concept of ‘psychological safety’, introduced by Amy Edmondson. Psychological safety refers to the feeling of being included, respected, and safe to take risks without fear of judgment or criticism. Mr. Smith’s leadership style did not foster psychological safety, as I felt constantly scrutinized and hesitant to express my ideas or experiment with new approaches.

This experience taught me the importance of a leadership style that balances guidance with autonomy, allowing individuals to develop their skills and contribute their unique perspectives. Effective leaders recognize that their role is not to dictate every step but rather to provide support, encouragement, and opportunities for growth.

In conclusion, my experience with a less-than-perfect leader highlighted the negative consequences of micromanagement and the importance of fostering self-efficacy and psychological safety in the workplace. Effective leadership empowers individuals, encourages growth, and creates an environment where people feel valued and respected.