Manager’s Notebook: It’s a Jeep Thing.

Why taking ownership matters.

I grew up in a middle-class family with an IBM father who had one indulgence; a tangerine orange Porsche 911T Targa Top. I couldn’t wait to drive that car- and when I came of age I learned something very interesting; Porsche owners always gave each other a little wave. It was our own private club.

Earlier this year I acquired a Jeep Wrangler, and much to my delight I discovered the same club exists. Now, every time I’m out and about I look for the oncoming Jeep and share a small moment with the driver of the other car. At home, I’d say it’s 19 of 20.

So I have been dismayed while vacationing in a very nice eastern NY town where many folks have Jeeps that they may or may not use for the beach. Unfortunately, it appears most owners buy them for the “cool” factor, since only about 1 in 20 give “the wave”. Finally, I saw a Jeep with a license plate frame that said “It’s a Jeep thing- you wouldn’t understand”.

It’s really the difference between buying something and owning something, and the same thing is true for your career. Got that managers job? What’s more important to you, the new office or being responsible for other people’s careers? That promotion? Is it the money or the realization you are providing more value which should inspire you to provide even more?

When you think about how you view these things, always ask yourself- do I own it? You should.