Elizabeth Lane

Mentioned in this module was Kotter’s central argument, "Managers focus on promoting stability and leaders press for change,” which leads me to realize that managers maintain a prescribed order and consistency in their work, whereas leaders inspire and align people while setting the direction, which may move in a new course in the future.  There is a balance between the two separate entities that reminds me of a performance of the Tango where both partners meld into a well-orchestrated and choreographed movement across the dance floor as they adapt to new environments.

Leaders have their eye on the horizon (future), whereas managers are focused on the here and now (present).  In both instances, leaders and managers may gain insights from the organization's former unfolding events (past) and apply their new-found wisdom for the benefit of the teams and the organization as a whole.

The element of inspiring or influencing others is characteristic in leaders, whereas, managers are intentional in focusing on controlling resources (i.e., employees who are a high-value asset), and managers are on a mission to fulfill the vision set forth by the leader.