• Theory X - leaders are authoritarian and assume they need to supervise the team constantly. These leaders think that their members don't need or want responsibility which means motivation is done with extrinsic methods (i.e., time off, bonuses, less work, etc.). These types of teams are traditionally not high-performing (Scandura, 2019).

• Theory X - leaders believe that their team members want more responsibility and want to help make decisions. These leaders believe that each team member has something valuable to offer the group. These employees are intrinsically motivated and typically form high-performing teams (Scandura, 2019).

I have used both leadership philosophies to lead diverse, high-performing teams effectively. Not every employee will be trustworthy, and not every employee slacks off when I am away. Often I'll have both kinds of employees on their team. As an effective leader, it is my job to be able to accommodate a multitude of personalities; some of these skills will include criteria from Theory X and Theory Y. Doing so will help me create an environment where high-performing teams can grow.