What does it mean to think like a manager? That subject receives little attention. We tell people don't be managers, be great leaders. But separating management and leadership is risky. Leadership without management produces a disconnected approach that promotes arrogance, just as management without leadership encourages an uninspired style that numbs action.
One issue with management is the dichotomy of instructions. We tell managers to think globally and act locally. Work together and compete. Constantly change, and maintain order. Make the numbers while caring for your employees. So managers must weave in these opposing objectives to be effective. That illustrates they must concentrate not only on the tasks at hand but also on how they must think. Managers require a variety of mindsets.
