Watcher or Observer?

I believe there is a difference between being a watcher and an observer. In my experience, the watcher is passive and only indulges his/her curiosities. They have no intention of becoming aware or involved. The watcher can plan on manipulating the materials gathered from watching.

Today, with social media, millions of watchers lurk in the background and seek information they can use for their personal benefit or to destroy someone else’s success. When they do step out, it is usually anonymous and targeted biased comments aimed at a particular target. Unfortunately, the Presidential Election of 2024 is loaded with watchers who will support anyone if they benefit from it, regardless of whether it provides relief for the greater good of the population.

On the other hand, the observer intends to use the knowledge to become aware, involved, and develop. The observer wants to be engaged and be a collaborator in the organization.

Becoming an active observer is not an overnight transformation; once you’re ready, the progress can be rapid. It’s an empowering role in which you actively seek important knowledge and apply it to your life. While others may choose their own paths, the observer is driven by a thirst for growth and learning.

Once you’ve embraced the role of an observer, it’s important to remain steadfast. Others may try to pull you back, but a true observer remains resilient. Seeking connections with other observers is a way to avoid isolation. An experienced observer understands the big picture and their role within it. They also recognize how new knowledge may challenge cultural norms and embrace the change as an integral part of their growth.

An observer does not succumb to peer pressure. Instead, they adapt their lives to align with the organization’s values, principles, and purpose. When alignment becomes impossible, they seek a new environment. This adaptability can be challenging but is a testament to the observer’s open-mindedness. They understand that knowledge can often trump belief, primarily when belief is not based on fact. As they discover what is accurate and valid, their personal and professional perspective can shift.

Observers love to share what they discover with others but never force that knowledge. On the other hand, a watcher usually hoards the new knowledge for self-promotion or manipulation. If an observer shares something, and the person rejects the interest, they change the subject. They allow the seed planted to take its course; it will either germinate or dwindle and die.

Takeaways: The observer brings value to the organization because they choose to be involved and grow with it. They contribute by sharing their insights, proposing innovative solutions, and fostering a collaborative environment. In contrast, the watcher is usually self-centered and focused on learning only what they can use to leverage their own position.

Every individual must choose to be either an observer or a watcher, and it is not something you can delegate in terms of personal and professional attitudes. However, there are times when a specific role, such as a research analyst or a market watcher, is created within the organization that contains the activities of observation or watching. It’s important to be clear when expectations are set for these roles.

Leadership Questions: Where do you feel your skills are in being an observer or a watcher? Why?

Keys: |Application: Leaders and Employees |Status: Stratactical |Duration: DNA Embed |Impact: Medium