The Art of Management – Knowing When to Pick Discipline vs. Flexibility

Introduction: The Duality of Management

Management is a balancing act between two critical skills: discipline and flexibility. The key to mastering this art is knowing when to stick to a plan and when to adapt. Both approaches are essential for success, but the real challenge is understanding which approach is right for the situation in front of you.

We’ve explored how discipline can drive long-term success, as shown by the Penrith Panthers’ 2024 NRL Grand Final win, where sticking to their game plan paid off. We’ve also seen the risks of rigidity through Kodak’s downfall and the power of flexibility in Apple’s pivot to the iPhone. But how do you, especially as a young or first-time manager, decide when to hold firm or when to change course?

Discipline – Consistency Drives Results

Discipline is all about consistency. It’s sticking to a well-laid plan, following through on commitments, and resisting the urge to deviate when things aren’t going perfectly. As discussed in the earlier articles, teams and companies that adhere to a disciplined approach often build resilience, reliability, and long-term success.

Just like the Penrith Panthers worked their plan to tire out Melbourne’s forwards before scoring late in each half, disciplined management allows businesses to stay focused on long-term objectives, even when immediate results are slow to materialise. Organisations like Toyota and Amazon are prime examples of how disciplined execution over time can lead to industry leadership.

However, there are moments in every manager's journey when the plan, no matter how well thought out, might no longer be the best path forward. That’s where flexibility comes in.

Flexibility – Adapting to Market Changes

Markets change, technologies evolve, and new competitors emerge. Being rigid in the face of these changes can leave companies—and managers—behind. Kodak, for example, failed to adapt when the digital camera it invented threatened to disrupt its lucrative film business. In contrast, Apple’s ability to pivot to the iPhone shows how businesses can flourish by adjusting to market shifts.

So how do you, as a manager, know when to pivot? How can you tell when sticking to the plan is more of a risk than changing course?

How Do You Decide?

This is where management becomes an art rather than a science. For many young or first-time managers, the decision to stick or pivot can be daunting. The truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer—it’s often a gut call. But you don’t have to make that decision in isolation.

The best managers understand that their own instincts are just part of the equation. They know how to tap into their network—whether that’s colleagues, mentors, or more experienced managers—to get guidance and feedback. When you’re unsure whether to stay the course or shift gears, don’t hesitate to ask for advice. You’re surrounded by people who’ve faced similar decisions, and their insights can help you gain perspective.

For junior managers, you may not be making decisions that could sink or save the entire company, but that doesn’t mean your choices aren’t important. It’s vital to stay aware of your market and industry trends, even if you’re working in a smaller team or on a specific project. The ability to pivot when necessary, or stand firm when discipline is required, will set you apart as a leader.

Gut Feel and Smart Support

Often, the decision to stick or pivot comes down to trusting your gut. But remember that your gut doesn’t act in isolation. It’s informed by the experiences of those around you and the knowledge you gather over time. For a young manager, making a pivot might feel risky, but so is sticking with a plan that’s no longer relevant.

Talk to your mentors, consult your team, and keep an eye on the bigger picture. At the same time, don’t be afraid to trust your instincts. You’re not expected to make these decisions alone, but you are expected to make them when they arise.

Conclusion: Mastering the Art of Management

The art of management is learning when to be disciplined and when to be flexible. As a young or first-time manager, it’s natural to feel uncertain about making these calls. The reality is, you’ll rarely know with certainty whether sticking to the plan or pivoting is the right choice until after the fact.

What you can rely on is your network, your experience, and your ability to adapt. By combining discipline with flexibility—and knowing when to tap into each—you’ll grow as a manager and help guide your team or organisation to success. So, don’t stress about getting every decision right; focus on staying aware of the market, listening to those around you, and developing the confidence to make the call when it’s time.