The Difference Between a Manager and a Leader

A manager keeps the train on the tracks.

A leader decides where the train should go.

Management is about control—budgets, schedules, and processes.

Leadership is about influence—vision, motivation, and culture.

A manager enforces rules.

A leader inspires people to follow a shared purpose.

Managers measure success in numbers.

Leaders measure success in impact.

A manager ensures tasks get done.

A leader ensures the right tasks get done for the right reasons.

Managers have authority.

Leaders earn trust.

Management is assigned.

Leadership is chosen—by those who follow.

“A manager is obeyed. A leader is believed.” – Mike Brewer

Both are necessary.

Both can be in one human.

Be both!