"Vous gérez les choses vous dirigez les gens"

Managing things and leading people are two entirely different challenges, and understanding this distinction can be the key to success in any endeavor. Managing is about handling processes, resources, and logistical details. Leading, on the other hand, is about inspiring and motivating individuals to move in a common direction. You can manage a project’s timeline, budget, and scope, but you lead the team that brings that project to life.

This insight was famously articulated by Rear Admiral Grace Hopper, a pioneering computer scientist and U.S. Navy officer. She had an incredible knack for breaking down complex concepts into impactful, relatable advice. Hopper understood that while the tools and techniques you use to manage tasks are vital, the real magic happens when you lead by motivating and inspiring your team.

Take the example of Steve Jobs at Apple. When Jobs returned to Apple in the late '90s, the company was struggling. On the management side, he had to make tough decisions about product lines, budgets, and resources. But what truly turned Apple around was his leadership. He inspired a shared vision, pushing his team to create products that would change the world. He led people through his passion and charisma, making them believe in the company's vision just as fervently as he did. That’s the essence of leadership—creating a compelling vision and galvanizing others to follow you toward it.

So, how can you apply this wisdom in your own life? Start by recognizing the difference between tasks and people. When you’re working on a project, create a clear plan with specific steps, deadlines, and responsibilities. That’s management. But don’t stop there. Engage your team, communicate the bigger picture, and make them feel valued and part of something greater. That’s leadership.

Imagine you’re organizing a community event. Managing the event involves booking the venue, arranging the schedule, and coordinating volunteers. But leading involves inspiring your volunteers, energizing them with your vision of how important this event is for the community. Talk to them, listen to their ideas, and show genuine appreciation for their efforts. This combination of management and leadership will make your event not just organized, but truly impactful.

Let’s bring it a little closer with a relatable scenario. Think about that group project back in school. There was always that one person who took charge of the logistics—assigning tasks, setting deadlines, making sure everything was in order. That’s management. But remember the person who motivated the group, who kept everyone’s spirits up, who turned the late-night work sessions into something fun and memorable? That’s leadership. Both roles are crucial, but they require different skills.

So next time you’re in charge, remember: manage the things, lead the people. Set your team's direction, keep everyone aligned with the mission, and don’t get so bogged down in the details that you forget the human element. Because at the end of the day, it’s the people who bring any vision to life. And when they’re inspired, there’s no limit to what they can achieve.