I’ve been re-visiting a fantastic book called The Truth About Leadership. I believe this is one of the most important “primers” on leadership that you can read.
Why? Because it sets foundational principles that we all need to grasp before we can really implement deeper principles on leadership. I’ve heard many times that leadership principles have changed with our current information/technology revolution.
No, they haven’t.
In the introduction to this book, the authors address this idea, saying…
…the context of leadership has changed dramatically…but the content of leadership has not changed much at all. The fundamental behaviors, actions, and practices of leaders have remained essentially the same …”
If, in fact, everything rises & falls on leadership, then understanding foundational elements of leadership are really non-negotiable if you are in a leadership position.
In this book, Kouzes & Posner suggest 10 fundamental leadership principles. We might post more on these individually in later posts, especially applying the principles to leading in children’s & family ministry, but just listing them here is a great reminder to all of us.
The principles include:
- You make a difference.
- Credibility is the foundation of leadership.
- Values drive commitment.
- Focusing on the future sets leaders apart.
- You can’t do it alone.
- Trust rules.
- Challenge is the crucible for greatness.
- You either lead by example or you don’t lead at all.
- The best leaders are the best learners.
- Leadership is an affair of the heart.
- Model the Way
- Inspire Shared Vision
- Challenge the Process
- Enable Others to Act
- Encourage the Heart
