Before this week, I had never heard of Internal and External Locus of Control. After taking the Rotter's Locus of Control Scale Test I have found that I have an internal locus of control. Which, according to Northouse, pertains to followers who "believe that they are in charge of the events that occur in their life."(2016)
I very much believe that I have control over my life and what happens whether good or bad. My decisions and actions determine outcomes. The Path-Goal theory suggests that participative leadership is best for followers with an internal locus of control. I would somewhat agree with this. However, I think there are a lot of flaws with the Path-Goal Theory and don't think it's the most effective theory we've discussed so far. The Situational approach seems more effective and in-line with my leadership.
My internal locus of control affects my leadership behaviors as I think that my actions and decisions affect my life and influence others as well. First, I am very goal-oriented and have achieved a lot throughout my career. Before becoming goal-oriented in my life, I was unmotivated and probably displayed an external locus of control. However, the more goals I set, strived for and achieved allowed me to see my life differently. For example, about five years ago, I decided to actually write out some SMART goals, one of which was to earn a 90% or higher on my physical fitness test. Before setting this goal I didn't really care, realize that I could push myself, or make a difference. After four months of training and running 3-times a week, I scored a 90.2% on my PT test.
Nowadays, when giving feedback to my subordinates I make sure they create SMART goals and tell them my story. My achievements show them that I have control over my life and outcomes. Through continuous follow-up, motivation, and encouragement I influence them to reach their goals.
My internal locus of control also affects how I respond to others' leadership styles. For example, when peers and supervisors make decisions that I do not agree with or like, I do not let it consume me or impact my decisions. I realize that I can overcome the situation and see the positive side. How I react also impacts my Airmen. I believe that if I had an external locus of control, that attitude would spread throughout the section. Therefore, I try to keep a positive outlook even in the midst of difficult situations and other leaders decisions.
Northouse, P. G. (2016). Leadership: Theory and Practice (7th ed). Los Angeles: SAGE
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