Leaders L.E.A.D.

“So, he shepherded them according to the integrity of his heart and guided them with his skillful hands.” (Psalms 78:72 NASB)

Over the years, I’ve adopted four thoughts as a quick go-to in my leadership journey. It’s an acronym of the word L.E.A.D. Remembering these simple points have helped me consistently lead well.

Lead with LOVE 

Love is the single most important motivating factor for leadership. If you’re leading out of obligation or for pay, people will eventually disconnect. People are drawn to a leader who has an authentic affinity for them. When we love people, we can see past their faults and see them as people. Your team is headed for a breakdown when you push for results more than you do relationships. When people know you truly love them, they’ll follow you even at their own risk. The secret to effective leadership is love.

Lead by EXAMPLE

Leaders are forerunners. Thus, we must lead by being the best we can in every area of our leadership. If we want people to pray, we must pray. If we want people to be in the Word of God, then we must also. This also applies to excellence in skill, physical fitness, appearance, attitude, and more. You don’t always have to be the best at everything, but you can give your best at everything. If you want your church, your teams, your organization to change, you must lead BY change. Leaders go first at everything.

Lead through ATTITUDE

Life gravitates towards negativity. Thus, maintaining a good attitude is a constant challenge. Nobody wants to follow someone with a sour attitude. I can choose to be upbeat no matter how I feel. Besides, how others feel is more important than how I feel. When someone asks how I’m doing, I simply say, “I’m Fantastic!” They usually respond, “Wow! I want what you have!” Whatever you put out is probably what you’ll get back. Be a bright spot. Be aware of the impression you’re sending out in every situation.

Lead in DEVELOPING

Competency is vital as a leader. We must communicate, perform, and relate skillfully. Therefore, we must constantly strive to develop our craft and area of leadership. As I get older, I regularly see others rising up around me. To this, I am constantly striving to develop myself. We should never stop learning because life never stops teaching. Increasing the level of your skill makes you more influential. As you rise, so will the people around you. Developing yourself and others is a constant in leadership.