There’s no value determination regarding which is the ‘best’, to the question, merely an inquiry as to which style reflects your preference. And if you say you are not a runner, this has little to do with running rather with action preference. The definitions I’m using as that a sprinter type is quick off the mark, many times leads the way, but when the (fill in the blank) ends, is off to the next project. On the other hand, the long-distance style paces themselves to go the distance.
The long-distance style typically judges that the ‘project’ will take a long time and so they plan ahead in order to not use up all the energy, resources, etc. The end ‘position’ is never an issue (I came in first or last) it is a personal style leading to completion of the project. A sprinter typically does everything in a hurry because they believe one should never waste time. They typically are highly focused and have a kind of, ‘the time is short’ mentality. Also they rarely make changes in the plan feeling that completion is the goal.
Unless you merely sit on the sidelines of life, everyone seems to ‘fit’ into one of these 2 classifications. Admittedly the ‘definitions are highly stereotypical. The point is – how would you describe your style? I do recognize that the definitions are mine and may or may not have any relationship to Webster. Not the point, given my definitions – how would you describe your style? While there may be other descriptive styles, for the moment, consider only these two. Unless you adopt an ‘audience’ lifestyle, one or the other will be your predominant mode of behavior.
Again… there is no value judgment on these two styles, merely a recognition that whichever is your predominant mode, it says something about you. The dilemma is if you attempt to use a sprinter’s style in a project that is/will be of long duration or use a long-distance style in a short-term project. You really need to know the ‘character’ of the project/situation in order to understand, apply, and utilize the style that will most effectively respond. Does this mean that I believe you should be able to utilize both styles? Absolutely. However, if you don’t feel confident in a style that isn’t your primary approach, you need to develop other strategies to respond and this includes leadership strategies. Never feel you need ‘to do it all’, you may have a coordinator leadership style.
