I’d Rather Lead by Principles Than Policies

I’d much rather lead by principles than policies.

Good organizations need both. I understand that. But policies tend to tell people exactly what they can and cannot do. Principles help people understand why we do what we do.

And I think that distinction matters.

Policies often create boundaries. Principles create freedom within boundaries.

As a leader, I want people to understand the guiding principles behind our decisions. I want them to know what we value, what we’re trying to accomplish, and what matters most.

Then I want to give them freedom to figure out how to get there.

Not everyone will approach a problem the same way I would. In fact, some will find a better way than I ever imagined.

That’s one of the advantages of having good people on your team.

Of course, there are times when policies are necessary. Some things need clear, nonnegotiable standards. And principles without accountability can create confusion.

But I’ve also seen organizations develop so many policies that people become afraid to make decisions without permission.

They stop thinking for themselves – waiting to be told what to do.

And eventually, the organization becomes limited by the number of decisions a few leaders can make. That’s not the kind of organization I want to lead.

I’d rather spend my time helping people understand the principles than enforcing another policy.

Because when people understand the why, they can usually figure out the how.

And when they have the freedom to do that, they often surprise you with what they can accomplish.