The Mixing Bowls: A Simple Way to Keep Boards Out of Micromanagement

Micromanagement often begins with good intentions. A board member wants to help, so they ask about staffing decisions, program details, or event logistics. While the motivation may be genuine, it blurs the lines between governance and management. This can create tension, confusion, and frustration for both the board and the chief executive.

The Mixing Bowls metaphor offers a simple solution. Imagine three bowls nested inside one another. The largest bowl represents the change the organization seeks to create in people’s lives. The middle bowl represents the programs and services that support that change. The smallest bowl contains the resources, logistics, and daily decisions that bring the work to life.

Boards are responsible for the largest bowl. Staff are responsible for the smaller bowls.

When boards reach into the smaller bowls, they unintentionally disrupt the entire system. The chief executive feels second-guessed. Staff feel micromanaged. The board becomes burdened with details that do not belong in the boardroom.

But when the board stays focused on the largest bowl—on outcomes, direction, and purpose—clarity returns. The chief executive gains the space to lead. The staff feel trusted. The board can be strategic without being overwhelmed.

Strong governance requires clear boundaries. The Mixing Bowls metaphor makes those boundaries easy to understand and easy to follow.

If your board would benefit from clearer roles and a calmer, more focused governance environment, you can schedule a consultation using the button below.