My Way or the Highway

2Team “Me” Putting the I in Micro

The engine that pulls the train of micromanagement is the inability to subordinate self. Subordination of self is the setting aside of personal perceptions, opinions, and, at times, self-interest for the greater good or the best interest of others. Unfortunately, people who micromanage usually think it is all about “them.” They lack the ability to take themselves out of the equation. Me, my, and I are the micromanager’s favorite pronouns.

In its most egregious form, the inability to subordinate self results in personal or organizational corruption. Loosely defined, corruption is the promotion of self at the expense of all other considerations. In its most extreme, it is rooted in greed, avarice, and self-promotion. ...