Thigmomorphogenesis

Young trees that are staked and sheltered from wind grow tall, fast, then snap the first time a real storm hits. The ones left out in the elements to sway, develop thicker trunks and deeper roots. Botanists call this thigmomorphogenesis (pronounced thigmo-morfo-jen-e-sis).

We do the opposite with managers. We shield new ones from conflict, tough calls, budget pressure and then act surprised when the first real storm breaks them. We put the blame on their lack of resilience when the problem is that we’ve overprotected them or not provided them with the skills to withstand what they’ve been exposed to.

If you want strong managers, equip them with the skills, then expose them, early, on purpose.