Rob Henderson shared insights and a book on this question, “The Social Paradox: When Finding What You Want Means Losing What You Need. Autonomy, Connection, and Why We Need Both to Find Happiness” by William von Hippel
I’ve noted for years that people need a sense of control over their futures. Even a tiny bit of choice can make a significant difference in challenging experiences, such as losing a job. Autonomy can also be a catalyst for creativity and innovation and a source of energy when taking on new challenges.
But people also want a strong sense of belonging, to feel like part of a group with a common purpose and perspective.
I’ve seen employees struggle with giving up autonomy for the sake of belonging—giving up flexibility or choice to fit within the group’s desires (many leaders ask their teams to be “100% committed” or “all in” implying there is nothing left for other aspects of our lives).
Where do you feel tension or alignment between your need for autonomy and belonging? How do you help your teams with this?