8 Comments

Good morning,

This is a tough one, especially in frontline work. Yes, as the Japanese saying goes: "the nail that sticks out gets hammered down." However, it depends on what the organization/ coach/ hiring manager is looking for. Some teams are wanted to stand out (in American culture). People with chips often are extremely driven and passionate. Both qualities most bosses look for in possible leaders. As you mentioned, the question is if they have learned to regulate and/or channel that energy yet? Time tells all. As with many things, in this case we may just have to go with our gut (I know that's not very academic).

Thanks for your time.

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The concern here is mainly about the chip being triggered to anger, right?

If it doesn't trigger a negative emotion, then we are essential saying that a chip can just fuel intrinsic motivation? Advantage Chippy?

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That sounds solid. Hence the importance of an in person interview. Additionally, we'd be wise to keep in mind an emotionally disturbed person (EDP) will usually not show it to those in authority (the hiring manager in this case). Hence, if potential candidates are wired this way, you will have to go about it using unconventional methods.

Thanks for your time.

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I chip on the shoulder may very well motivate one to excel. However, a chip unchecked and unconfronted will strip any happiness away from its inspired accomplishment.

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Hi Bruce! Welcome.

Do all chips needs to be processed and checked?

Are there benign chips?

Are there healthy chips?

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Yes, I think chips need to be overcome. Otherwise, they will either keep an individual down or be the the vehicle for exploitation (or both.) Michael Jordan had a chip on his shoulder from getting cut from his first basketball team. That motivating him to do better. However, he would have been useless to Nike and would not be the GOAT if still carried that chip around.

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A really insightful piece. So much of leading and operating in the world of work is underpinned by self-awareness. For me, self-awareness is made up of

* reflection of hard and relational skills

* recognition of impact

* regulation of behaviour

All of these layers help us manage our chips!

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Reminded of what Cus D'Amato said about fear: "Fear is like fire. It can cook for you. It can heat your house. Or it can burn you down." Couldn't the same be said for the chip on the shoulder?

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