Not-so-commonly listed leadership practices...

         I read A LOT about leadership. Nothing great ever happened in the Bible, without a Godly leader in place who made some good choices. I have been a student of leadership for over 15 years now, and I've seen a TON of "Leadership Best Practices Lists." I even have my own (I'll talk about that later). However, here are some not-so-commonly listed leadership practices.

Leaders pray about decisions.
Leaders NEVER do what's best for them, but what's best for the organization.
Leaders work harder than everyone else.
Leaders are more disciplined than everyone else.
Leaders are willing to sacrifice more than anyone else.
Leaders don't shy away from making tough calls.
Leaders realize that the people that got you to HERE usually won't get you to THERE.
Leaders are honest. Even when it's hard.
Leaders love people.
Leaders believe in who God made them to be and are confident in their identity.

Comments

[nate]

Hey, Shawn. I read this when you first posted it, and I've been thinking about it since then. I'm gonna print it off and keep it around as a reminder.

I've got a question about one I was wondering if you could elaborate on. #2. Leaders NEVER do what's best for them, but what's best for the organization. I understand that on the surface and I think I know what you mean by it, but how does the leader's family play into that one? I'm just curious.

[Josh Parrish]

I love it! This is such incredible wisdom and encouragement for all pastors. (especially all of us young pastors trying to figure this deal out) Thanks for posting these practices.

[Brian Jones]

Shawn,

I'm going to share that list with my staff on Wednesday. We have some "tough calls" to make this week and appreciated the reminder. Thanks for bringing insightful stuff week after week.

Brian Jones
www.brianjones.com

[Mike Nelson]

Great post, Shawn.

I think that "Leaders realize that the people that got you to HERE usually won't get you to THERE." is an especially heavy truth and warrants further unpacking in future blogs.

It leaves me asking the following questions:

1. As a church leader, are you applying this thought to staff, the church body, or both?

2. How do you know when it is time to bring in people to get you THERE.

I would like to hear your thoughts.