As leaders we all go through life and work holding to past regrets, those disappointments over lost or missed opportunities. We’re sad or repentant over things that we wish we had done differently.
Thomas Paine (1737-1809) was an English-born Founding Father of the United States. An inventor and philosopher, he authored Common Sense, a pamphlet that was influential at the start of the American Revolution.
As Jesus began teaching on earth, His words about leadership and leading were shocking. In fact, they were so at odds with religious leaders of the time, they believed Jesus could not possibly be the Savior they were hoping and waiting for.
On the surface the story of Job may seem a cruel game. A faithful man, he suffers greatly, questions God, and receives God’s pointed response. How should we lead when faced with trials and difficulty?
Leaders by nature want to win. They want to win the account, win the deal, win the quarter, win the best staff, win at products, win at service. This is why Jesus’ teaching for leaders to “love your enemies” is tremendously challenging.
Being offended is to feel hurt, angry or upset by something that is said or done. Note that offense is a feeling. Have you offended someone or been offended today?
You cannot predict how someone will act in a given situation. Sometimes they do what you expect, and sometimes they surprise you, good and bad. As a leader, you have to learn not to take anything personally.
Do you enjoy decorating the outside of your house with lights for the holidays? In my neighborhood are dozens of homes with colorful wreaths and twinkling lights. But there is a strange fad occurring of late: families of lighted deer on front lawns.