The following is from a session I did for youth workers. We often talk about the value and importance of leadership, so I really wanted to explain what it means to L.E.A.D. in as easy, and as memorable of a way as possible.
We would probably mostly agree that a significant part of leadership is essentially communication, however, not all communication is verbal. And if that’s the case, then we really need to make sure we’re intentional and aware of how we’re communicating…especially when it has to do with our actions and reactions. So, without any further delay, here is a practical approach to help you L.E.A.D.
- Love
- In my line of work, as a student pastor, it really is critical that my students (and those I serve) know and understand that I love them. Not because they’re always perfect, but because they’re not always perfect.
- I’m not sure what line of work you’re in, but whether you’re in the public, or private sector, it really helps if you love what you’re doing. Or at least be passionate about it! Trust me, those you are attempting to lead will ascertain if you don’t enjoy your job.
- Example
- This has to be one of the most basic, fundamental doctrines of leadership…you must learn how to lead by example! Regardless of who it is that you’re ministering to, working with, or even working for…regardless of the size of the group that you’re attempting to lead…you must lead by example. No matter what environment you are in, you have the potential to lead merely by example. Guess what? If you have a strong work ethic, then those that are following you will be more inclined to have a strong work ethic. If you’re lazy, or easily distracted, it’s highly likely that those characteristics will be reproduced in those you are leading.
- Abstract
- When I think of abstract art, I think of art that is different, unique. It’s art that definitely requires some non-traditional, outside the box thinking. It’s not traditional. It’s not conventional. It’s often not even easy to understand. Does that sum up some individuals that you’re trying to lead? I think we would all agree, that a leadership style or tactic that might work for one individual might not necessarily work for the the next individual. So, our leadership strategy might need to sometimes be abstract.
- Additionally, our leadership style needs to be personable. Now, there will absolutely be certain leadership principles that are the rock solid core of who you are, but you’ll be at your best when you can find a way to relate to each individual that you are attempting to lead.
- And one of the best ways to relate and connect with those that are following us, is to find someway that you can connect with them on their level. If you haven’t connected with them, the chances are very slim that you’ll have any significant success in leading them.
- Develop
- Finally, we must constantly be on the lookout to identify new leaders, and then develop them. Don’t be discouraged. It is a process. It won’t always happen overnight. In fact, it might even take seasons in order for you to start seeing any progress. But you MUST, you MUST constantly be developing new leaders.
- And when it’s all said and done, you must invest in the next generation, to invest in the next generation. It is critical that your lineage of leadership be passed on from one generation to the next. And they realize they’re responsible for passing it along to the next generation.
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