Behavior control

Autopilot means: Control is automatic. Applied to our human behavior, this means that much of it is automatically driven and influenced by our current emotional state, our thinking, and our inner reactions to what we are experiencing. These are short-term factors that can change in a volatile manner even during the course of the day.

In the long run, our behavior is substantially influenced and driven by our personal values and the beliefs based on them, all of our experiences that we have already made in our lives and, in addition, by our needs.

Much of this happens unconsciously. Like with an iceberg, visible and conscious behavior is only the tip.

We frequently stand in the way (including our own)

You know the situation: You are traveling by train. At the stop, you are walking towards the door and wait for it to open. As you want to leave the train, countless people stream towards you and block your exit. Or the person in front of you on the escalator simply stops at the end of the escalator to consider which direction to take – inconsiderate of the crowds building up behind. Or the manager, who simply starts answering messages on his or her cellphone or laptop during a meeting. These are all things that happen when people are not aware of their impact.

Become aware of your impact

The behavior of leaders has a particularly strong influence on the organization. It is therefore all the more important for them to be aware of this impact. As a leader, you cannot be “on” or “off.” You cannot switch on your leadership function at will and then switch it off again. You are always a leader, you are always “on.” You are under permanent observation and people are getting their bearings from you. You have influence, you have an impact on people – whether you are aware of it or not.

Therefore, whenever possible, deactivate the autopilot and take the helm yourself by forming clear intentions and becoming aware of your impact on your environment.