Have you ever been called a “leader” or a “manager”—and wondered what that really means?
Understanding the difference can completely shift how you work, how you relate to others, and how you grow.
Some years ago, a Japanese man said to me:
“You’re a great leader, but a terrible manager.”
At the time, I was confused… and quite offended.
How could that be true? After all, during my 10 years with McKinsey Japan, I’d received the highest performance evaluation—“Distinctive.”
But later, after starting my own business, I saw it clearly.
Yes, I’m strong in people development and communication.
But long-term planning? Tracking numbers? Detailed delegation and evaluation? Definitely outside my Zone of Genius.
(Yes, I can teach these things to others—but the thought of doing them regularly myself makes me feel slightly nauseous! 😅)
That’s why I have a fabulous team to support me 💕
If you’ve never thought much about the distinction between manager and leader, here’s a quick comparison:
I’ve long seen myself as a leader—in my corporate career, NPO board work, running my business, and more.
But lately, I’ve been leaning into a different identity:
✨ A guide.
My clients are the real leaders—even if they don’t always recognize that in themselves at first.
They’re the heroines and heroes of the story.
And I’m more like a guide… or maybe a Fairy Godmother 🤣
I like to pop up at just the right time to offer clarity, skills, and encouragement—helping you to surprise yourself with what you can do and who you can be ✨
One of my female Japanese clients said, “いつもの自分なら絶対にやらないであろうことが出来ました。” 💕
I’ve also realized I do my best work in focused bursts—not in constant operational mode.
Maybe you’ve noticed something similar in yourself?
🌱 Not everyone works the same way. And what worked at one stage in your life may not be right for the next.
As I always say: do what works for you.
💬 Over to You
- Which role are you leaning into right now—leader, manager, guide… or something else entirely?
- What do you want more (or less) of in how you work and lead?
(You might be surprised at what you discover.)