PROXIMITY: THE PSYCHOLOGY OF LEADING WITHIN REACH

Julio Ibeh Agbanyim
Mr., Grand Canyon University, USA, ayara@att.net

Abstract

Human brain is a social organ. Our brain is designed to interact with each other and other elements in our environment. To avoid human interaction in any setting is to experience a psychological distance. In order to close this social gap in the workplace, leaders, scientists, and practitioners have to be accessible to their clients, students, employees, and colleagues in an effort to promoting healthy human relationships and increase outcomes. This presentation focuses on understanding the importance of leaders creating a balance between adaptive challenges and technical fixes when leading in various organizations and institutions. An adaptive challenge refers to a circumstance that has no prepackaged strategies to problem-solving. Solution is treated on case-in-point basis. On the other hand, technical fix relies on competence which are acquired through schooling or vocational basis (i.e., doctors, engineers, psychologists, accountants, technicians, ITs, etc.). Not all problems are solved through adaptive approach. Some challenges are solved through technical fixes. By knowing the differences between adaptive challenges and technical fixes will allow leaders to properly connect with others in the workplace, and to promote psychological well-being, which can be achieved through building and maintaining employee/management relationships.

Keywords: psychology, Proximity, leadership