You cannot be successful in any phase of your life unless you understand yourself.Ĭhoose to ignore what drives you and where and how you thrive, and this state of dissonance will breed dissatisfaction and less than optimal performance. When your behaviors are dissonant with your values, you struggle.Īnd sadly, many others fail to find ways to contribute that reflect themselves at their best.

Others fail to tune-in to and live their values. I regularly see people working in areas and in roles that fail to draw upon their unique skills.their superpowers. If things aren't working right for you in your position or career, chances are, you are out of alignment with the real answers to one or more of Drucker's questions. What does the situation require? How's Your Career Going? Are You In Alignment? They develop when people are prepared for opportunities because they know their strengths, their method of work, and their values. The mirror test-what kind of person do I want to see in the morning? 4. Too many people work in ways that are not their ways, and that almost guarantees nonperformance. How do I perform? (How do I learn?)Īmazingly, few people know how they get things done. Most people think they know what they are good at.

Drucker's 5 Key Questions in 'Managing Oneself' 1. The article is arguably more relevant in today's world than when it was written in 2005-a testament to Drucker's long-range view on people, management, and society. If not, do yourself a big $9.99 favor that will pay dividends a thousand times over and buy a copy. If you are a subscriber to HBR's online library, read the article.

His powerful questions and frank commentary on what we need to do in our careers helps me reorient and reset on my priorities and activities. Every year I read Peter Drucker's classic article, 'Managing Oneself' as part of my personal-professional career navigation process.

Peter drucker's managing oneself