Almost on a weekly basis I hear from a young pastor who wants to grow as a leader.
He feels the pressure placed upon him and knows others are looking to him to steer the church on a healthy course. Most of these leaders are humble, knowing that ultimately Christ is the head of the church.
What they also know is there are expectations of their position, decisions that have to be made that are not clearly defined in Scripture, and that seminary didn’t train them to make.
Sometimes it seems I’ve given the same advice many times; either reminding myself or to another pastor. The more times I share the same concept, the more it becomes a short, paradigm-shaping idea that summarizes the basic issue the leader is facing.
What isn’t always clear is I’ve learned these concepts mostly by living these concepts. I’ve made more mistakes in leadership than I’ve had success. That’s what this post is about. These are some warnings I’ve observed firsthand in leadership positions I’ve held. I’m trying not to continue to live them and I’d love to help other leaders avoid them.
Here are seven warnings for aspiring leaders:
1. What you “settle for” becomes the culture.
2. Mediocrity isn’t created. It’s accepted.
3. Your actions determine their reactions.
4. Don’t assume they agree because they haven’t said anything.
5. You’ll never get there just “thinking about it.”
6. If you’re the leader, they are likely waiting on you to lead or release the right to lead.
7. What the team values becomes apparent by your actions, not your words, no matter how well spoken they might be.
What warnings would you share with aspiring leaders?
