Are you a Leader? How can you know whether you are a leader or not? People often say they are not leaders because they don’t hold a high-level position in their church, organization, or company. Others consider themselves leaders because they hold one such position. What if holding a so-called leadership position had little to do with it?
Many decades ago, J. Oswald Sanders defined leadership as influence. His definition was made famous by John Maxwell and has stood the test of time. If that is the case, leadership as influence can be exercised from a top-level position in an organization or by the janitor that maintains the facilities in top shape so that everyone else can do their job excellently. While working with and equipping leaders, I have observed leaders of high visibility and anonymous influencers. Here are some of the characteristics I have seen in both.
1. Followers
You may think I am stating the obvious, but the ability to mobilize people to join the vision is at the core of authentic leadership. Maxwell noted that “he that thinketh he leadeth, and hath no one following, is only taking a walk.” So if you can name at least a few people who would join your vision, you are a leader.
2. Change
Authentic leadership is not about maintaining the status quo. On the contrary, true leaders have a healthy dose of discontent and work continuously to transform themselves, the people around them, organizations, society, and ultimately, the world. So, are you satisfied with the world around you? If your answer is a resounding NO, at the very least, you have leadership potential.
3. Intentionality
I like to add the word intentional to Sanders’ definition: “Leadership is intentional influence.”
4. Value-added
Good leaders have followers because they add value to other people’s lives. Yes, the vision is central, but there is more to leadership (and followership) than just accomplishing the vision. People follow leaders who help them add value to their lives. So, what motivates your desire to influence others? Is it for your benefit or to serve them?
5. Track Record
Someone once elaborated on Sanders’ definition by stating that there is no influence without trust. That is where a proven track record becomes a must. Not that more than skills and abilities, real trust has to do with character.
You and I are followers of Jesus. He is our leader. His influence over us must frame any influence we want over others. He came to launch what I like to call “The upside-down Kingdom of God.” Our leadership as influence has to be intentional and focused in the same direction.
1. Sanders, J. Oswald. Spiritual Leadership: Principles of Excellence for Every Believer. Moody Publishers, 2017.
2. John Maxwell. “Are You Really Leading, or Are You Just Taking a Walk?” John Maxwell, 7 Aug. 2012, www.johnmaxwell.com/blog/are-you-really-leading-or-are-you-just-taking-a-walk.
As Lent commences on Ash Wednesday, we are entering a time of introspection and prayer leading to Easter. Let us reflect on the significance of death preceding resurrection, urging readers to embrace a daily practice of surrendering self in preparation for our spiritual transformation.