4. Control
Inflexibility on the part of a leader limits the church or organization to the level of performance solely by the leader. That’s always bad. Even if the person is a genius, there’s a lid placed upon the organization or church’s future. People feel squashed of their potential and under appreciated, producing half-heartedness and poor morale. Who needs that? But there are still growing organizations with controlling leaders. (Notice I didn’t say healthy, but growing).
5. Pride
Perhaps the worst trait I’ve personally observed is the arrogance of a leader. It turns people away in disgust when they hear a leader brag on all his or her accomplishments. The braggart feels good personally, but is never as popular as he or she perceives. I’ve found if a leader is really good at what they do, they won’t have to tell others about it. Yet, do you know any arrogant leaders who apparently lead “successful” organizations – even churches?
That’s my list. Again, these are all bad leadership traits, in my opinion and observation. Some will argue you couldn’t have these and lead successfully. That would depend, I suppose, on your definition of success, but regardless they are still bad traits. I would even say the worst.
This article originally appeared here and is used by permission.
