The Multiplier Effect

For my latest class, Action Research, I am reading a book called The Multiplier Effect, by Wiseman, Allen, and Foster. A follow-up to their original, this book applies leadership principles to the education world. The authors argue that it is not enough to be smart and talented to be a good leader; you must also know how to maximize the talents of others. Those who do this well are called "multipliers," and those who do not are called "diminishers."

There is a quiz you can take to find out if you are an "accidental diminisher" (spoiler alert: I think most of us are!). I took the quiz, and I scored a 23, the low end of the 21-30 point range that says I'm "likely an accidental diminisher." After taking the quiz, in addition to your score, you receive a report on the questions that contributed to a higher score. While I think some of the scenarios didn't really apply to my position in my school, I definitely agreed with the label "micromanager." I know that I have difficulty letting go of tasks, and that there have been times I stress myself out with the desire to do it all because it is simply easiest that way. I don't have to explain my thinking or teach others how to use the tools, and they would have to consult with me anyways so... I might as well just do it. This also means that I have difficulty asking for help when I need it, or I wait until the last minute to reach out because I am so sure that I can do it alone.

I think that in the classroom I have gotten a lot better at redirecting this side of myself, especially working with senior students. Theoretically, I should be teaching my students that it is okay to take risks and fail. We try to model a growth mindset, and being a micromanager can stifle that in my students and colleagues. As I grow into my role as teacher leader, this will be an aspect of my personality that I will need to keep an eye on. I look forward to reading more of The Multiplier Effect to learn about ways that I can do so.