Paycheck Power

There are two kinds of power. As an employer, you inherit “paycheck power”-- the power to write paychecks, to hire and fire, to make the rules, and to enforce them. Paycheck power says, “I pay people, so they should do what I want. I should be successful, and they should work hard.”

I met a business owner that used his paycheck power too often. His team questioned his sincerity when he said growing the business would help all of them. He resented them for not believing him. He said to me "team building is useless."

This guy was clueless. He had no right to have employees. Business owners need to be enlightened not frightened. There is a more authentic, more generous, and more far-reaching power than paycheck power. It's the power of your responsibility for everybody’s well-being.

It is not a burden to lead people if you lead using the power of service and success. Care for your team just like you care for your patients and customers if you want to create the most supportive, productive environment possible. Live your belief in people and it will inspire other people. They will help you build your business and make your future secure.

Woodrow Wilson said, “You are not here merely to make a living. You are here in order to enable the world to live more amply, with greater vision, with a finer spirit of hope and achievement. You are here to enrich the world, and you impoverish yourself if you forget the errand.”

I believe him.