I recently received a great question as to whether “Making Yourself Indispensable” is self-serving. I thought others might have the same question and appreciate reading my response. Here’s part 1:
The point of the book is that being truly indispensable is not an ego statement based on “self-interest”. Being indispensable is defined by “being of VALUE to others” -Your value to the organization, your team and even your family.
The book describes six choices to being indispensable. While all six choices are linked to increasing your “value proposition” there are three in particular that speak directly to NOT being self-absorbed. Purpose-Driven where your purpose is to serve a greater good. We-centered rather than Me Centered which is about considering the impact on your team and others. Value others, which is all about including and acknowledging others, rather than taking all the credit and going it alone.
For leaders, being indispensable means that you are developing other leaders and build winners. It is NOT about you winning at the expense of others…that is the fast track to being dispensable.
I would love to know your thoughts. Please share below.
Best,
Mark
Being indispensable is a tool I consider of high value to face complex environments like nowdays. If we self asses this six important decisions that Mark writes in his book we will realize of certain areas that we need to improve in order to be competitive.
Being indispensable is not an outcome nor a result. It’s a path – something to strive for on a regular, daily basis. It requires that we remain conscious of situations and people around us. Pretend to get in a helicopter every day and look all around from above to see what is needed and fill the gap with your skills and your heart. If you don’t have the skills, find someone who does. Gosh, I think I have just described Mark!
I really like how your approach increases my value to the organization, the team, and my family. I’d even extend it out to others that I’m in relationship with.