There are two ways of working in any organization. One is employee mode (E) and another is ownership mode (O).
In employee mode, we view working as a distinct and separate activity not connected with life and living in general. We think working is a necessary evil. We want as many holidays as possible and possibly one-day-work-week. Employee mode is a survival mode. Not a growth or evolving mode. The primary purpose of work is money.
On the other hand, in ownership mode, you view working as an integral part of life and living. You view colleagues and customers as part of your life. We think working is fulfilling and enriching. We think it is karma-yoga. We want as many work days as possible and possibly a 14-day-work-week.
When you are in ownership mode, it is not survival any more. It is touching as many lives as possible and adding as much value as possible. Primary purpose is not money (but it generates more money than E mode). Ownership mode results in fulfillment and even enlightenment.
Employees who work on ‘ownership mode’ will become owners sooner or later. Chandra (N. Chandrasekaran) who joined as a trainee rose all the way to Chairman of Tata Group. AM Naik who was trainee once became Chairman of Larsen & Toubro. Jack Welch started at entry level became CEO of GE. On the other hand business owners who work on ‘employee mode’ will become an employee sooner or later.
Employee mode is easy. Less painful. Less rewarding. For short term.
Ownership mode needs alertness, training the mind to have new perspective. You are in driver mode. More difficult, more rewarding and more fulfilling.
E mode or O mode? - Choice is ours!