They communicate clearly and consistently the problems and challenges the organization is facing, as well as possible solutions, positive news, and exciting possibilities. They empower people by giving them the authority and the tools to get things done. They make sure that people are excited and inspired by the mission.
Good leaders make optimism an organizational priority. The people in the organization where you serve/lead will become more optimistic if they 1) are informed and involved, 2) feel that they have the power and authority to take action and 3) are committed to a compelling direction and inspiring vision. Good leaders stoke the fires…
Everyone has heard the phrase “perception is reality” and understands that’s it not a declarative statement about actual reality BUT the way an individual views something. For example, if someone thinks you were terse or rude in yours words when speaking to them then their perception is the reality in which they’re living in. To effectively communicate…
Leaders must never expect from others anything more than they’re willing to deliver themselves. They should never expect higher levels of commitment, creativity, persistence, or patience than what they themselves manifest on a regular basis…and if you cannot say, ‘Follow me,’ to your followers – and mean it – then you’ve got a problem. A…
Here’s several principles Colin Powell shares in his book It Worked For Me: In Life and Leadership as well as some that Oren Harari shares in his book recounting Powell’s leadership (The Leadership Secrets of Colin Powell): Be prepared to tick people off Establish trust Walk the talk Pick the right people Listen Be vigilant in…
Oren Harari in The Powell Principles: 24 Lessons from Colin Powell, a Legendary Leader shares a good word on establishing trust that’s essential for leaders to learn. People are inclined to trust those who… Are competent – individuals who have relevant knowledge and experience and can keep the organization whole and healthy Have character –…
Bill Hybels has a really powerful word on the relationship between pastor/shepherd and the sheep and explains how we must not lead with a domineering spirit. Throughout my entire ministry, one thing has almost always been true: If I communicate the right mission at the right time of the year in the right way and…
Bill Hybels in his book Axiom has some very insightful and wise thoughts regarding the seasons organizations go through. For my context, the organization is the church. Here’s his breakdown: Season of growth. In this season everything is going well, attendance is spiking, giving is on the rise and the future looks bright. Season of consolidation.…
Here’s some sobering observations (from Dave Kraft in his book Mistakes Leaders Make) on Saul’s life. Insecurity leads to motivation by fear of failure Circumstances, not God’s desires, control Saul’s choices Rationalization, not repentance, follows his sin He loves the favor and respect of his son, Jonathan He loses favor with God He assumes the problem…
Dave Kraft in his book Mistakes Leaders Make gives 10 things pastors should strongly avoid. Allowing ministry to replace Jesus Allowing comparing to replace contentment Allowing pride to replace humility Allowing pleasing people to replace pleasing God Allowing busyness to replace visioning Allowing financial frugality to replace fearless faith Allowing artificial harmony to replace difficult conflict…
Theology Along the Way 