I had a conversation with Bill Simmons, one of our senior leaders at SpringWell, the other day. He asked me “what makes a leader”? In our conversation I suggested several descriptions of what a leader is in my opinion. In all of my definitions, Bill said “no, that’s a characteristic…what makes a leader?” As I began to ponder his comment & question I came to my personal conclusion that characteristics ARE what defines someone or something. I believe that many characteristics of a leader can be learned. Therefore to define what makes a leader, one would have to know what the characteristics are. So – in driving down the road and pondering our conversation, I wrote some thoughts on scrap paper about the question: “What makes a leader?”
To me what makes a leader boils down to willingness…
Leaders have a willingness to:
* learn. Leaders are continual learners. If a leader feels they don’t have any more to learn then it’s time to question thier leadership.
* serve others. Leaders see themselves in a servant role – not in a “master” role.
* step out in faith. Leaders are willing to follow the vision they believe they’re receiving from God. They follow their hearts with passion.
* make decisions. In following their God-given vision, leaders make decisions.
* plan. Leaders take time to plan for the future – praying all the while.
* work hard. True leaders will be the first one to tackle a project or task but will also be the last one finishing it up. They realize that the price to pay to reach a goal is hard work.
* guide. Leaders are willing to guide tasks as well as people. There will always be both aspects in leadership roles and responsibilities.
* follow. Leaders are willing to follow God’s plan even if it’s not the “popular” plan. They also are willing to follow the vision of the organization they’re a part of.
* support others. Leaders encourage other people. They look for leadership characteristics and encourage othes to step out in faith to take on leadership responsibilities. They also realize not everyone was designed for leadership. True leaders support people where they are.
* adapt when necessary. Leaders can adapt from “plan a” to plan b, c and d quickly. They realize there is usually more than one way to accomplish a goal.
* be positive. Leaders are willing to “see the bright side of things” rather than drag others down in negative commentaries.
* get dirty sometimes. Leaders realize they have to be willing to get in the “trenches” and do the dirty work too.
So those are some of my “car thoughts” on leadership on that particular day. Thank you, Bill, for getting me thinking! Obviously we are always seeking leaders at SpringWell as well as followers. If any of those qualities sound like you, please contact the church to let us know what your interests are and we can try to help you further develop into the leader God is calling you to be using the gifts He has given you! (I hope it’s in the Home Group ministry! I know…shameless plug.)
What are they saying?