Why Someone Might Struggle as an Employee

In the workplace, some individuals excel as team players, seamlessly integrating into established roles and following directions. However, others find such environments challenging due to their inherent drive to lead rather than follow. This article delves into the reasons why certain employees, despite their skills and motivation, may struggle when they are not in leadership positions.

1. Independent Thinker

This employee exhibits a strong preference for independent thinking, which often clashes with the need to adhere to established protocols and directions. Constantly questioning existing methods and seeking innovation can be disruptive in a structured environment.

2. Strong Vision

Possessing a clear vision of how tasks should be accomplished and where improvements can be made often puts this employee at odds with leadership. Their push for changes may not always align with current strategies or timelines, causing friction.

3. Reluctance to Follow Orders

While respecting authority, this employee struggles with following orders perceived as inefficient or ineffective. This reluctance can be viewed as insubordination, even though the intent is to optimize outcomes.

4. Desire for Autonomy

Thriving in environments that offer the freedom to make decisions and implement ideas, this employee finds traditional roles with close supervision and rigid structures stifling.

5. Natural Leader

A natural inclination to take charge and lead projects often causes tension when this employee is expected to follow someone else's lead, especially if there is a belief that a better approach exists.

6. Innovative Spirit

With a constant drive to innovate and improve processes, this employee's pursuit of continuous improvement can be seen as disruptive in environments prioritizing stability and adherence to existing methods.

7. High Standards

Setting very high standards for both personal performance and those around them, this employee can become frustrated when these standards are not met, impacting the ability to work harmoniously within a team.

8. Need for Control

A strong need for control over work and environment can make it difficult for this employee to accept decisions made by others, particularly if there is a belief in a better approach.

9. Resistance to Micromanagement

Finding micromanagement extremely demotivating, this employee's productivity and creativity are hindered by the need for constant approval and oversight, making traditional roles challenging.

10. Entrepreneurial Mindset

An entrepreneurial mindset drives this employee to seek out new opportunities and take calculated risks, often clashing with the more conservative, risk-averse nature of many organizations.

While these traits make this employee a challenging individual to manage, they also possess qualities that can make them a successful leader. Recognizing and leveraging these characteristics can help align their roles with their strengths, enabling more effective contributions and greater satisfaction in their work.