Remember back when you were in school, and your teacher would announce that a newgroup projectwas being assigned?
If your classrooms were anything like mine, you recall hearing a collective groan echo from chalkboard to chalkboard.
This post originally appeared onThe Muse.
Confession time: I was probably the one groaning and complaining the loudest.
But, it was likely for a different reason than most of my classmates.
My peers were disheartened to hear that evenmorework was being tossed on their plates.
I wasnt so upset about the new assignment.
That probably makes me sound like a pretty terrible person, and an even worse colleagueI get that.
But, it doesnt change the facts: Im a totalcontrol freak.
I feel this undeniable urge to have the final say on every last detailno matter how small.
Identifying your own weaknesses does something equally important at the same time: It highlights your teams strengths.
Be Open and Honest
Theres nothing worse than a control freak who repeatedly chants, Imnotacontrol freak!
Listen, you like to be in chargeand, sometimes theres nothing wrong with that.
But, refusing to own up to your true colors wont do you any favors.
In fact, it will likely just irritate your team even more.
The best thing you’ve got the option to do?
Own up to the fact that you like to take charge right from the get-go.
Take this piece of advice one step further by enlisting an accountability partner on your team.
Theres more than one way to do anything.
That doesnt necessarily mean that one method is right and the other is wrongtheyre simply different.
You should even ask questions, rather than doling out strict demands and instructions.
You might be surprised by the thoughtful ideas and suggestions that come to the surface.
No, this might not come easily when youre a natural-borncontrol freak.
But, as the old adage goes, we have two ears and one mouth for a reason.
You are definitely still entitled to contribute to the project or objective with your thoughts and your efforts.
Nobodys saying that being ateam playermeans being completely hands off.
Perhaps thats by creating a detailed timeline for the entire project.
Or, maybe youre the best one to lead your regular team meetings to get status updates.
Find some different things that would actuallyhelpyour team and put those on your own plate.
Youll be a valuable team member, while still satisfying that inner control freak.
Give them a try for yourselfIm sure your teammates will appreciate it!
