“Leadership and the One Minute Manager” first caught my attention when I was just 13 years old. At that age, I didn’t grasp much of its depth, but the ideas left an impression that stayed with me over the years. Recently, revisiting the book as an adult, I was pleasantly surprised by its timeless insights—especially the foundational framework of the four levels of management: Directing, Coaching, Supporting, and Delegating. The visual chart mapping these levels on a spectrum of Directive versus Supportive provided a clear, immediate decision-making tool for managers, a concept that resonated with me on a professional level.

In my current role, I’ve applied these principles consistently, and each time, they have proven valuable. The method not only enhanced the clarity and effectiveness of my communication with my team but also helped foster a more professional and supportive work environment. By tailoring my approach according to the situation—whether providing direct guidance or empowering team members through delegation—I’ve seen tangible improvements in team dynamics and overall performance. This renewed perspective on leadership has reinforced my belief in the power of clear, adaptable management strategies.