“There is a time in which one man rules over another to his own hurt” (Ecclesiastes 8:9). Working in a position of control or power can have a backlash. When we rule with little regard for those working for us, we gain no loyalty or respect from them. We cut into the productivity of our workers and their willingness to go the extra mile, which not only hurts our company but also ourselves.

In a home, parents rule over their children. The final product may be anything from a child who has grown up angry and critical, to one who is kind and understanding. The parents do play a large role. When children reach adulthood, they will either love to be near the parents or stay as far away as possible. When we are ruled with a heavy hand, we try to get away.

How pleasant it is to work in an environment where we feel respected, wanted and needed. We will work long and hard for such a boss.