The Power of Sharing Information
Anabolic vs. Catabolic Leaders: The Power of Sharing Information
In our exploration of the characteristics of anabolic and catabolic leaders, we’ve already determined that anabolic leaders lead and participate, while catabolic leaders manage and delegate.
This month, we’re turning our focus toward another key aspect of leadership — how information is passed on to others — to further illuminate the differences between these two approaches.
Giving vs. Sharing — What's the Difference?
In any leadership role — whether you’re a Fortune 500 executive or a parent — imparting information to others is a crucial part of guiding and influencing.
➥ Catabolic leaders give information.
To “give” means to convey, transmit, or allot — in other words, once you give it away, you detach from it. It’s a hands-off approach — a simple delivery of facts or instructions.
➥ Anabolic leaders share information.
To “share” means to partake, use, or experience together. Anabolic leaders stay engaged in the process. They’re not just handing something off; they’re participating in it alongside their team.
Why It Matters
When a catabolic leader delivers information, it’s typically brief, terse, and weak on explanation. There’s little buy-in or context — which can undermine understanding and dampen motivation.
Anabolic leaders, on the other hand, take the time to explain their thinking and goals. They connect their requests to a bigger picture, foster collaboration, and empower their team to contribute and innovate.
An Example in Action
Picture this scenario — two leaders need the responsibilities of department members. Here’s how each might handle it:
➥ Catabolic Leader:
"John, I need a rundown of the responsibilities of the people in your department. Please get it to me by tomorrow afternoon, if not sooner."
➥ Anabolic Leader:
"John, we’re considering bringing in some additional staff members to ease some of the production crunch you and your department are under. I’d like a rundown of the responsibilities of the people in your department so I can see who’s doing what and where some gaps might be. Since I’d like to get this process underway soon, how possible would it be to get this to me by tomorrow afternoon or earlier? After I take a look at it, I’d love to sit down with you to hear your ideas for improving this. How does that sound?"
The Difference in Outcome
The two messages convey the same information, yet the delivery makes all the difference.
➥ The first (catabolic) is likely to foster confusion, resistance, and a lack of motivation.
➥ The second (anabolic) invites cooperation, buy-in, and a willingness to go the extra mile.
Take Action
Anabolic leaders get results!
This month, we challenge you to shift from simply “giving” to “sharing” information — at work and at home. Take a few extra minutes to provide context, explain your thinking, and seek collaboration. The return on that small investment can be huge.
✅ Try it this week and watch the ripple effects in your relationships and outcomes.
Want More Now?
Discover your own leadership style — and learn exactly how you show up under pressure and stress — with the Energy Leadership Index (ELI) Assessment. This powerful tool provides you with personalized results and actionable strategies to become a more anabolic leader and maximize your influence.
Click here to learn more and take the ELI today!
This newsletter contains my interpretation of the copyrighted work of Bruce D Schneider and the Institute for Professional Excellence in Coaching (iPEC).