I started working when I was a teenager. Very soon after that, I was promoted to supervisor. I've been in leadership roles ever since. There have been time when I have taken on entry-level positions to either run away from or give myself a break from being a leader. However, no matter what position I'm in, I always do a good job and have top numbers, so I always get asked to take on more responsibility or promote. I feel like I'm a natural born leader, so it's hard for me to escape leadership.
Lately, I've been questioning if there is another way for me to be a leader besides being a manager, supervisor or team lead for a company. Because, quite frankly, I'm tired.
It's a lot. Especially when you are middle management. I feel like I bear the brunt of top management and the employees. Many of my managers love the work I do, but hate it at the same time because it shows where they are lacking. Like they like the idea of me, but not the reality. I've been through it when it comes to managers. They've made my life a living hell but use me to get praise for themselves.
When it comes to employees, they want to do the least work and expect me to do everything else. I better not coach or discipline them. Right now I work in a job where everything is in black and white, documented, monitored, etc. I had to write someone up a they had the gall to tell me I was lying even when they saw the proof. My boss even told them they wouldn't have given them all the chances I did. Yet, this employee went and bad mouthed me and tried to play victim.
It's just too much. I love leadership, but being one in these spaces has taken a toll.
I have a seasonal job. It's nice to come in and do my work and not be responsible for other people who don't care about doing a good job.
Maybe I haven't found the right company?
Is there another way for me to lead without working for a company, business, etc?
I don't know. I'm just tired and I can't keep going like this.