Control Freaks Unite!
The functional definition of a control freak is "someone with a compulsive desire to exert control over situations and people" (Wordnet.princeton.edu/perl/webwn). Does that sound like you? Do others call you a control freak? Do you wonder what all the fuss is about?
I am Tracy Knofla, and I am a control freak. There, I've said it! Give me a big Wooooo Hooooo if you are with me!
I am a control freak over many things. And, I think, a perfectly reasonable person over many other things. It's just more fun for others to characterize me as the former than the latter. When did it become a bad thing to want to do things a certain way?
Most notably, I am a control freak when I am conducting a training seminar. You see, it matters to the overall quality of a seminar how the chairs are arranged and how well the microphone works. It matters that the names on the nametags are large and highly readable. It matters that the candy is good, yummy chocolate and not off-brand sour balls. These things really do affect the quality of a presentation. When I am preparing for a workshop, I do have a "compulsive desire to exert control over situations and people." All, in my estimation, for the common good!
So, in this area I am unapologetically, a control freak. How about you?
What I hope separates me from the stereotypical "control freak" are these
three things:
1. I am good natured and even tempered about it. I use good manners
and polite language, even when being insistent.
2. I explain to those involved about the importance of the event
to me and the reason why it is so important. This helps them put my actions
in context.
3. I believe in the words of the serenity prayer: "God grant
me the serenity
to accept the things I cannot change; courage to change the things
I can;
and wisdom to know the difference." It is the wisdom to know
that difference, which makes all of the difference for me.
There are things we all want to control and direct. There are many things out of our control. Be compulsive and insistent about the things that you can control. Do it in a way that is polite and respectful, communicating effectively with those around you. Let others have their areas of control as well. In some ways, being a control freak is one of the most important ways you can show your dedication and commitment to excellence.
Gotta go, time for my next presentation!
Tracy
*******
Tracy Knofla
High Impact Training
PS. Feel free to share this with your friends and colleagues