What is Middle Way Management?

Middle Way Management™ is the practice of leading and managing people based upon time-tested ways of being; it is a consciously mindful, compassionate approach that is neither too controlling nor too lax. Middle Way Management emphasizes accountability in an atmosphere of authentic connection. Middle Way Management is patient and kind; it exercises genuine concern for people because they are the real constituents of the organization, not just those who benefit from its bottom line, though bottom line numbers ultimately become healthier and more vibrant when the people contributing to organizational success are led and managed with patience, love, and compassion. Middle Way Management is practiced in the now with a full, energetic commitment to doing what is necessary and right today to fulfill on the vision and promise of tomorrow. Middle Way Management is a daily walk in the presence of chaotic energy tempered by conscious love, true compassion, and mindful intent.

The Middle Way Manager

The Middle Way Manager™ lives a conscious commitment to self and team, exercising a daily, mindful walk in the present. The Middle Way Manager is a constant, guiding presence, standing firm in the face of challenge and honoring colleagues at all times. The Middle Way Manager is here now, ready to support through active engagement and positive encouragement, always willing to offer empathy, compassion, and candid accountability. The Middle Way Manager does not practice any one behavioral extreme, remaining mindful of the effect actions and words have on others. The Middle Way Manager’s primary goal is to relieve suffering at all organizational levels in all possible ways.

Why is Middle Way Management the Answer Today?

Middle Way Management is intended for practice in any country, any culture, and across time. As the world continues to move into a genuinely global marketplace, the pressing need for Middle Way Management becomes more urgent on a daily, sometimes hourly, basis. Our current economic troubles are rippling through the world markets with little sign of abating any time soon. We are living this because management principles and practices have emphasized personal gain and the accumulation of vast wealth above all other motivations. Is it not time we shifted our leadership and management focus to a longer term commitment to right thought, right speech, and right action? Is it not time we fulfilled organizational goals within the context of our market economy through coherent, congruent, consciously mindful ways and means? Is it not time for Middle Way Management?

In the weeks and months ahead, I will be publishing blog entries intended to flesh out, embellish, and add to the ideas I have presented here. I look forward to your comments and suggestions and eagerly anticipate what I am confident will be lively dialogue centered on the subject of Middle Way Management and what it takes to be a true and effective Middle Way Manager in these trying times.

Onward! Darin

Copyright © 2009, Darin R. Molnar, PhD. All rights reserved.