Page 64 - EDM Today Winter 2025

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WITH
WITH
JOE BALLEK, MBA
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ARE YOU AN EFFECTIVE

SELF-MANAGER?

For many, one of the most
diffi cult tasks a manager faces
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is managing their own behavior
and actions. They can see
clearly how to manage others
under their control, but managing
themselves can be challenging.
Yet, their success in self-
management directly infl uences
their overall effectiveness in
managing others.

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Recognizing the importance of self-management is relatively new to modern management theory. If, for example, we
look back to the early 20th century, management theory focused not so much on the individuals, but rather on how
the work was done. In 1909, Frederick Taylor published The Principles of Scientifi c Management, which put forth his
theory that worker productivity could be increased by optimizing and simplifying jobs. Taylor’s theories became part of
modern management theory and part of every business school curriculum. Some might argue that Taylor’s emphasis
on standardization and discipline laid the groundwork for later, more focused studies on self-management.
Recently, business coach and author Corey Dissin identifi ed a common
characteristic of individuals struggling with self-management: the “Yes, but”
mindset. A “Yes, but” person initially agrees with an idea or suggestion, but
quickly follows it with a reason why it won’t work or why they can’t act on it.
For example, when asked, “Did you remember that we need to plan the
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meeting with our customers?” the response might be, “Yes, but I’m too busy
right now.” This behavior often signals challenges with self-management.
To be fair, most of us can recognize a bit of “Yes, but” in ourselves. In a
recent video shared with his contact group, Corey explained this concept,
encouraging viewers to refl ect on whether they exhibit this mindset. His
goal was clear: to inspire self-awareness and motivate change.
The fi rst step in developing self-management skills is recognizing areas
where improvement is needed. If you identify with the “Yes, but” mindset,
take time to refl ect. Are your challenges rooted in time management,
goal setting, emotional regulation, or a general lack of focus? Poor Corey Dissin
self-management can manifest in many ways, and it’s common to excel
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in some areas while struggling in others.
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