Leadership

As I previously wrote about, I've been developing my leadership skills because I have been put in such positions both at Church and at work. And as I contemplate what are the areas I have grown in, I find that there are some very specific things that I have learned. I know that I still have much to learn; but, figured that as I blog about it ongoing, I may see a progression of my growth over the years. So, at this point, in my initial limited view of leadership, the following is what I have seen are important:

• "Not passing the buck" - In the past, I have always shied away from making decisions, where possible. Of course, in everyday life, and in areas where I knew I had to, I would. However, if there was someone else who was in a position to make the decision, I would usually let them. Looking back, I mainly did not want to be responsible for making a bad decision, if that's how it turned out. Yet, now that I run projects and I teach class; the responsibility squarely falls on me. Interestingly, I have gotten somewhat used to making decisions now; and I'm pleased to find that I actually have good background, experience, and knowledge/wisdom to make good decisions. This also involves trying to solve and address problems and issues that come up, and not giving it over to someone else.
• "Navigating the waters" - This involves being able to understand how to interact with all different kinds of people; being wary where necessary; and in situations like work, this also translates to learning how to survive the politics. This takes understanding how all the various areas that you encounter function; and being able to see the big picture, not just one specific area.
• "Developing thick skin" - Anyone in positions of leadership are bound to encounter opposition and criticism. That's because you can never please everyone at all times. I think one of the most important components of this, is to be able to know what is the right thing to do, and to learn to stand firm in that, no matter what.
• "Delegating" - This is a very important part of leadership, especially as our role expands. There comes a point that we as one person will not be able to handle everything; and we need to be able to find the right people to help. This also involves being able to assign tasks and to track & follow-up on them. Even Moses was advised to delegate, when his responsibilities became too great.
• "Calm in the midst of a Storm" - A leader needs to be able to keep a calm level head through anything that comes up, enough to be able to make clear decisions on how to handle the situation.

It's been an interesting growth process; and over time, it will be neat to see how much more I grow and develop.