Health & Fitness
Are You a Super Hero at Work? Ask Margaret
What is so bad about being a super hero? Nothing--if you're Clark Kent. But most of us need other people, and it's better to be a super team than to be a super hero.

Are you a take-charge, save-the-day, kind of person? Are you cool-headed, reliable, focused and straightforward?
“Alright,” you say; “If that makes me a superhero, then sign me up.”
Do you always absolutely need to be in control? Are you so focused that all you can see is just getting it done? Are you very blunt and direct when you communicate? Are you absolutely certain that there is one right way to complete a task and that way is your way?
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It may be that you suffer from superhero syndrome. Sorry, that is right, syndrome. This means that you are smart, reliable, focused and incredibly good at seeing goals through to completion. But you are not, I repeat, you are not a superhero. You are a highly valued part of the team. You may be the leader, but you are still part of a team.
Try not to act like a tank and roll right over your team members. Because you are so focused, you may appear overly aggressive. Some may find you to be arrogant or even a bully. Is this what you want? If the answer is yes, well congratulations you have met your goal.
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If the answer is no, slow down a bit and think before you act. When you come on strong, others around you may shut down. You may think that is just their problem. But the problem is you are missing out on other valuable input. Remember that if someone suggests an alternative approach to completing a task, it is not a direct attack on you. You can achieve your goal and build relationships along the way.
If you work with a superhero, here are some pointers to help you harness their superpowers:
- Be prepared when you approach them with questions, communications or other information
- Be specific and stick to the facts
- Be concise, get to the point quickly
- Be professional and keep your emotions in check
- Remember to support their need to accomplish a task or goal
- If necessary, allow them to have the last word
Remember, it takes all different types of people to form an effective team.
Questions? Thoughts? Please leave a comment below or to have your workplace issue addressed here, please email Ask@MargaretMeloni.com.