Good Leaders get the freak out of the way!
The world has become obsessed with position. Who is in what position establishes authority, yet those who have lead know that authority is good, but influence is even better. Here is what I have learned about the most influential of leaders.
They know how to get out of the way.
They understand that in specific seasons and on different days there are team members, support staff, or volunteers whose specific skill set surpass that of their own. Or in certain cases they sense that the Holy Spirit is working in an unique and increasing way in someone else other than themselves. It is at this point where one of two things will happen. Either one, the leader will hold tightly to their control and authority missing the magic that is happening in one of their team members because they are so obsessed with the hierarchal structure and their positional authority. Or, they will value vision and movement towards that powerful futuristic picture more than their own power and will highlight the one the Holy Spirit is evident in.
Jesus did this often as he highlighted the faith filled Child or faith fueled Centurion. He never relinquished authority, he just practiced humility as he allowed others to move a kingdom vision forward.
I remember seasons where I highlighted Cam, an intern and then as a director almost every other day because of what God was doing in His life.
I remember making the networking skill of Dave center stage for weeks in hopes of moving an entire team forward.
I still turn the spotlight on Adam for his spiritual authority
I have asked myself again and again, do I need to be, or should I be the most skilled and smartest on the team? Do I really want to be the most skilled or smartest on my team?
There are days where I crave position. This is a sin. Yet, longing for a fulfilled vision where I get to join God in the renewal of all things is not, and the only way to get there is if on some days (if not most), I get the freak out of the way.
That is what the most influential leaders do!
