From surveying dozens of professionals it’s clear that very few enjoy management-related activities. Those with talent for management invariably migrate to such roles. For the majority however, management responsibilities occur by default - because they are the owner, the most senior person and/or there is no one else on the team who is capable. The seriousness of this situation goes much further than simply not having an enjoyable day. By losing focus on what they do best professionals run the risk of severely compromising the success of their firms and the potential benefits their clients could receive. These other responsibilities bob up at inopportune times, are the cause of stress and otherwise consume headspace best directed elsewhere.

Excerpt from Professional Headspace, my book on professionals in practice, expected to be released in July 2011.