Authenticity means to avoid overstepping

Authenticity means to avoid overstepping

When we feel strongly about something, it’s easy to overstep. In management parlance, we may call this “micromanaging”. In a way, we humans are creatures of beliefs and convictions; we are compelled to act in a way that supports our philosophy.

But authentic practice requires discerning when it is our time to act and when is it time for others to do so. In team sports, this is sometimes called “picking your spots”, especially in moments when the athlete cannot sustain taking over the entire game for long periods of time.

Finding the golden mean requires the willingness to experiment, iterate, and fail. As I colloquially tell my students (I’ve learned from my high school math teachers), there are things in life that need the TAE method – trial-and-error. Life is messy; shitty, even. But we need people who are willing to go through the dirty work (not unethical though).

A lead guitarist who oversteps can break the song; a soulful guitarist who picks their spots can elevate a song into a euphoric experience.

John 21:20-25. “If I want him to live until I come? What concern is it of yours?”

[DAILY GOSPEL INSIGHTS AND REFLECTION FOR MANAGEMENT AND ORGANIZATION 2023-147: MAY 27, 2023]