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The metaphor of a lighthouse is intriguing and is often compared to that of a tugboat. Lighthouse leadership says, “I’m here, a beacon. Navigate according to me. I am unwavering and steadfast. You need to decide your actions based on my presence. I have a singular light, a fixed position, and a clear outlook. You, however, are down there in the sea, in the midst of life. From my elevated position, I have a panoramic view. Trust me, for I can see what you cannot, and you must adjust your course accordingly.”
In contrast, the tugboat says, “I’m here on the water, experiencing what you experience. I see what you see. I am where you are. I can push, pull, guide, or coach. If you fall overboard, I can rescue you. If you’re confident, I can cheer you on. If you’re lost, I can guide you. I have no fixed position and can go in any direction. If you choose a different course, I can assist and guide you, offering far more flexibility.”
I see change managers, project managers, coaches, and consultants as tugboats, there to support change rather than act as a beacon everyone must follow. While I acknowledge the importance of steadfast leadership, akin to lighthouses that help me navigate coastal waters, I find that in challenging conditions, it’s comforting to have another boat beside you. A safety rib or a larger vessel within reach is invaluable.
