What is it? Theory “X” or Theory “Y”? Tough-minded leadership or a kinder, gentler variety? Take authority or give authority? I’m in charge or you’re in charge? Carry your own load or let me give you a hand?

Should we lead, manage, plan, organize, direct, control, command, and take responsibility? Or should we coach, facilitate, collaborate, involve, listen, advise, serve, and give responsibility?

The organizational world has been bombarded for decades with books that argue one or the other of these positions, both of which are right. But these theories lead to peak performance only when taken together in balance. One or the other won’t work, at least not at the high levels of achievement required by today’s hypercompetitive economy. Organization that have both but lean heavily to one side or the other will also be less than they could be.

The answer? A balance of power.