Across the known Universe, one is likely to encounter many suns and moons. In the same way, every workplace is a dynamic ecosystem filled with different personalities, work styles and leadership approaches. Like suns, some people naturally shine and occupy centre stage, while, like moons, others thrive by reflecting and supporting the light of suns in their proximity.
Do you know if you are a sun or a moon? It’s important to note that there are advantages and disadvantages to both!
Understanding which you are can help you embrace your strengths, enhance collaboration and contribute more effectively to your team. If you’re a Sun
Like their counterparts in the Universe, suns in the workplace exude energy and are a source of energy. Such people are natural motivators who inspire those around them with their vision and enthusiasm. They tend to:
- Lead projects and drive momentum;
- Energise the team with their confidence and passion;
- Thrive in fast-paced, high-visibility roles;
- Enjoy recognition and being at the forefront of decision-making; and
- Encourage others to step up and grow.
Suns keep the workplace dynamic and goal-oriented. Their charisma and leadership can push teams to achieve their best.
While this may all sound great, suns have their disadvantages – being too close to a sun can result in no life being sustainable. In the same way, too much “sunshine” in the workplace can sometimes overshadow others, making it crucial for suns to also create space for different voices.
Of course, if you’re managing a sun, you need to ensure that they don’t overshadow and overwhelm other colleagues. That requires strength of character, self-confidence and diplomacy on your part. If you’re a Moon
Moons, on the other hand, are those who excel in a more supportive, stabilising role. Rather than seeking the spotlight, they provide quiet strength, thoughtful insights and a steady presence. Moons tend to:
- Offer deep, reflective thinking and problem-solving skills;
- Support team members by listening and guiding;
- Excel in roles that require patience and attention to detail;
- Work best behind the scenes to ensure success; and
- Create harmony and balance in the workplace.
While they may not always be the loudest voice in the room, moons play a crucial role in ensuring that work is well thought out and teams remain grounded. Without them, workplaces could become chaotic and impulsive.
The downside of moons is that they may well be sitting with some great ideas but, if you don’t make a point of trying to draw those ideas out of them, those ideas will never see the light of day.
Managing moons requires sensitivity, insight, empathy and encouragement. Which one are you?
Understanding whether you are a sun or a moon can help you leverage your strengths effectively as well as help you manage others. Ask yourself:
- Do I naturally take charge in group settings, or do I prefer to support and refine ideas?
- Do I thrive in the spotlight, or do I work best behind the scenes?
- Am I the one who sparks new ideas, or do I help bring ideas to life through careful planning?
- Do I energise others, or do I provide stability and clarity?
Workplaces need both
The best workplaces aren’t just full of suns or moons – they have a balance of both. Suns provide the momentum while moons ensure sustainability. Suns may light the way, but moons help navigate challenges with wisdom and reflection.
Collaboration between suns and moons is key. Suns should recognise the value of those who provide steady support, while moons should embrace their ability to influence in quieter but equally impactful ways. When both energies work in harmony, workplaces become more innovative, productive, and fulfilling. Find your balance
While some people naturally lean toward one role, the most successful professionals learn to adapt. Sometimes, a moon needs to step up and take the lead, just as a sun needs to step back and reflect. Developing both qualities can make you a well-rounded and indispensable team member or manager.
So, are you a sun or a moon in the workplace? Or perhaps a bit of both? Embrace your role, appreciate the strengths of others and watch your workplace thrive!