Wednesday; May 27

If you are a leader, you probably understand there are two phases of leadership.  The first one is when it seems like you can’t make everyone happy.  I think we all realize the reality of this perspective – but, seeing it in black and white tends to make it more concrete.  The second phase of leadership is when it seems that you can’t make anyone happy.  This is said someone what in jest; but there are days when it feels like every decision you make is met with resistance.  You know it isn’t the truth, but it sure seems that way.
Leadership can be a challenge, but it is imperative that we have leaders – and maybe even more importantly, we need to have good leaders.  If you are a leader and are having one of those days (or a series of those days) here are a few suggestions:
1.  Make wise decisions.  This might be a no-brainer, but our goal mustn’t to be to make quick decisions or decisions that please the most people – we need to invest our intelligence and judgment into providing good, thoughtful direction.
2.  Accept input and criticism from others.  To me, this is one of the most difficult parts of leadership.  Leaders must understand that everyone has an opinion and, often, people’s opinions do not align with decisions that are made.  When this happens, let’s be mature enough to accept other people’s input and, if it is good, amend our decisions, but not be bullied into making poor choices.
3.  Get up each day and do the best we can.  Leaders don’t get to take time off.  Leaders can’t just quit.  Good leaders may feel the stress and pressure of the choices they make, but have to be willing to put yesterday behind them and move on with a fresh day. 
          Have you been called to lead?  Are you doing it – and doing it graciously?
          Think About It!

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