Invisible Contribution
“What on earth! Something is always running out,” complained my wife. Grocery shopping was her responsibility. In those moments, I found myself wondering: “Well, is that really a problem?”
The hurricane of war took my wife and daughter far, far away. They now reside in the United Kingdom. Presently, I’m in charge of the logistics of bringing groceries to my den.
And what do you think? I regularly mutter (with my wife’s intonation): “Curse it! Where did the butter/cheese/cream/tea disappear to? I just bought a whopping 10 packs not long ago.” And then, “Ah, now I understand Marina.”
This is akin to comparing the roles of a forward and a goalie. Epic goals into the enemy’s gates can’t go unnoticed. And your goalie? He’s a good fellow when nothing is happening. The first one is in the spotlight, the second always in the shadows.
In business, we sing odes to those who increase value: founders, sellers, lead generators, and so on. The function of maintaining order is often taken for granted.
It’s a dangerous illusion that just anyone could ensure order. It’s one thing to exert effort occasionally and achieve a Wow-result. Another thing is to do routine work day in and day out, year after year.
In the eyes of a wise leader, every function is valuable:
- Back-office for a partner in an investment fund,
- Support for the commander,
- Engineer for the inventor,
- Analyst for the manager,
- Goalie for the forward,
- Editor for the writer,
- COO for the CEO, and so on.
The value of some things can only be truly understood through personal experience.
Sincerely yours,
-Alexander
I write daily about creativity, freedom, and meaning.
As a business therapist, I help tech founders increase the value of their business by unlocking the potential of their personality. Testimonials from some of my clients are here.
Book in my calendar a convenient time for you to meet. We will clarify your request and discuss options to help you: Book a call >>
