It's the feminist version of "Simon Says, " but the purpose is the same.  One person controls all the others by giving them a command and then requiring them to ask for permission to take the  action.

It is a children's game that somehow makes an imprint on our psyches.  We continue through life hoping for opportunities to be the one giving the orders, and then as our worlds become more chaotic we switch roles and look for someone to tell us what to do.

What about the boardroom?  the corporate suite?  the classroom?  the shop floor?  Is it  important for folks in those settings to be following directions, taking orders, getting the process right ?  I think that is what it takes to get results.  But what gets in the way of being effective is the "Mother May I?" requirement. 

When CEOs must take every initiative to the stockholder meeting for approval; when faculty must submit any revised lesson plans to a curriculum committee;  when line mechanics cannot make a process change without consulting engineering....precious time is wasted and, perhaps more importantly, creativity and innovation are stifled.

The old saying "ask for forgiveness, not permission" has limited application, but playing "Mother May I" has a downside as well.

Effective leadership is making the mission and vision for the organization so much a part of the work climate that folks can determine for themselves what is "out of bounds" and when they need to take their plans and ideas to someone else for approval.

Are you helping your people develop decision-making skills? 

Are you working to free yourself from your "Mother May I" role?