We create detailed plans with dates and dependencies mapped out. We plan for risks and pad our estimates for the unknown.
And each time we fail to accurately predict the future. We can’t help ourselves though. We’re so consumed with the illusion of control. We’ve convinced ourselves if we just go into more detail, get more specific, get more forceful with our commitment, then this time it will work.
There’s a line in The Avengers which I feel captures this perfectly:
“You speak of control, yet you court chaos.”
Captain America, The Avengers
It is so tempting to be drawn in by the illusion of control.
Instead of control, how can we give responsibility? How can we give feedback? How can we empower our team today?
