Peopletics
“Success in almost any field depends more on energy and drive than it does on intelligence. This explains why we have so many stupid leaders.” – Sloan Wilson
Recently I found myself in a conversation with a man who blamed his lack of success on the fact that he refuses to play the “politics” game. It was the victim mentality in its purist form. Perhaps you’ve had these conversations with people or heard some of the popular catch phrases that go with this idea such as “it’s all about who you know”, “I don’t play the politics game”, or my all time favorite “I couldn’t get (or keep) that job because I refuse to play the game”. I must admit, I’ve even fallen into this pattern myself a time or two in the past.
The definition given by Merriam-Webster.com for politics is the “complex of relations between people living in society”. However, this definition, as well as the word politics itself conjures up negative connotations in the mind of most people. As time goes on, I’ve come to understand that people are people. People will always interact and gravitate toward other people that they know, like, and get along with. People connect with others who have the same mindset and/or values as them. The person referring negatively to this phenomenon is usually the one who feels as though they’ve been slighted in some way, be it a minor or major offense.
Perhaps it would be more beneficial to refer to these interactions as peopletics and stop thinking about it as a game that successful people are playing. In truth, there are relatively few people who actually perceive it as a game to be played. My experience has shown me that the success of these few is usually limited because of their lack of sincerity. Real success in leadership, business, and careers does not hinge on the fact that somebody plays the game well, it hinges on the fact that the successful person genuinely does not see it as a game. They simply see people, they genuinely get along with people, and they sincerely care deeply for people. Success in any venture, especially in leadership roles, revolves around a persons ability to deal tactfully with people. People are the number one asset in any organization and a great leader must learn to authentically value and appreciate others. This is not something that can be faked nor is it a skill to be mastered. It is a matter of the heart.
Well thought out and well said. Nice job.