Once upon a time in a leadership land “far-far” away there lived a man named Bob (not his real name). Bob viewed himself as an accomplished leader who had “it” all together. He had been performing the same leadership role in the exact same way for seven years. Bob was amazed at his own perceived wisdom and prided himself in…
Let’s be honest: we all like to get credit for the things we accomplish. So, what about those times when you plan, assist, contribute or even make the project happen? How do you respond when you are not recognized or even mentioned in the small print? The story of the first miracle of Jesus turning water into wine is told…
Is trust really that important in leadership? Do you have to be trustworthy to be an effective leader? Is trust in leadership overrated? How do character and competency relate to trust? If trust is important, then is it something which comes naturally or is it something that must be developed? “Some people are your friends all the time and others…
Some life events just stand out. I am referring to experiences which are life-changing…blazed into your mind’s eye forever. These are so poignant, the sights, sounds and even the feelings can be replayed in your head. There are other events that do not fit into the life-changing category, but they are nevertheless memorable. One of these memorable but not life-changing…
Recently while having my devotions, it dawned upon me. I was praying through my prayer list and with each name it became more obvious. Life and ministry are filled with detours which require making adjustments. One person had lost a family member to COVID…adjustments; another had cancer…adjustments; one had a wayward child…adjustments; one was experiencing interpersonal conflicts with coworkers…adjustments; the…
Casual Leadership extracts its greedy tariffs on corporations, classrooms organizations and churches, only making withdrawals. No venue is exempt, it manifests itself in the marketplace, halls of higher learning and sports arenas. A couple of football seasons ago there was a trend - or should I say plague – which emerged in college and pro-football illustrating this undesirable leadership trait.…
Listening to the conversations between children on a playground can be interesting and entertaining. If you have ever had that opportunity, then you might have heard comments like these: “I am the leader; you have to do what I say!” “No! You are supposed to follow me.” “That is mine, give it back!” “I’m supposed to go first!” “Hey everybody,…
I like people with a “can do” attitude: those who see a problem, obstacle or challenge and are willing to tackle it. Being around people with this kind of spirit energizes me! We need people like this now more than ever. Living in the present COVID 19 world has presented an entirely different set of challenges for our earth, compounding…
Looks can be deceiving, especially at first glance. Have you ever made judgements about a person’s role or personality type as you walked into a meeting, even when you did not know anyone? Upon asking questions or getting acquainted, you may have discovered your first impressions had to be reversed. Too often we make judgements based on quick assessments. I…
Pretend you have been chosen to participate in the world’s most prestigious Leadership Game Show. Finally, they call you to the stage where awaiting you are two doors from which you must choose. One door is marked “Leadership Influence” and the other “Leadership Position.” Which one will you choose? Which is more important in leadership? Influence or position? Does one…