In working with other churches and ministries, and in my experience in the business world, it seems we are desperate for good leadership. Whenever I meet a leader who is struggling in his or her role, I often hear an excuse. It’s far easier, it seems, to dismiss our expectations as a leader by creating an excuse than to plow through the difficulties in leading and grow as a leader and person.
Here are 7 of the most common excuses I’ve heard for not leading well… and my quick reply suggesting what to do about it:
- I don’t know how – So learn. Take a course. Get a mentor. Read some books.
- They won’t follow – They will if you’re taking them somewhere. Get a vision worth following, communicate it well and help people attain it.
- I can’t keep up – Pace yourself. Surround yourself with others. Don’t try to do everything or control every outcome. Learn delegation.
- No one taught me – That’s okay. Learn from experience. It’s the best teacher anyway.
- Times have changed – Of course they have. And, good leaders adapt accordingly.
- I don’t have a good team – That’s why they need a good leader.
- I’m burned out – Get help. Heal. Renew. Then lead again.
Honestly, I’m not trying to be sarcastic, arrogant, or unsympathetic. I realize each of these deserve their own post. (Which should I write first?) I really do believe, however, that good leadership is mostly jumping into the realm of leadership, finding a worthy vision, and finding ways to help people get there. Try it. You’ll get better the more you practice.
Which of these excuses are you using for not leading as well as you could?
Seriously, look over the list again. Are there any of them that can’t be overcome with a little determination?
