The Self-Differentiated Leader
by Rev. Cindy Halvorson, MDiv, DMin
Wow!! Being a leader is hard work!!
I’ve only written two sentences and I’ve used four exclamation marks. In my opinion, those exclamation marks have been well earned. Leadership is challenging and difficult work. As I contemplate the future, I don’t see the task and responsibility of leadership getting any less arduous. When I think about the past, I doubt leadership has ever been simple or easy. As leaders, we are pulled in many directions with various people wanting us to support and promote their ideals. We make decisions that impact people for whom we deeply care. Some look to us for guidance. Some anxiously analyze our choices without knowing the totality of the situation. What’s a leader to do???
At times like these, it is imperative that we know our core values. What are the ideals, the beliefs, that we hold to within our deepest selves? Are we consciously choosing to live our lives from our values? Or do our fears and anxieties drive us? Even as leaders, we are human. We live within the limitations of time, energy, and resources. These mortal confines can constrict our capability; and the weight of other people’s expectations can be suffocating.
Yet, when we are true to our values, we have a foundation on which to stand. Our decisions and behavior can be grounded with our beliefs and ideals. When we find ourselves being pushed and pulled as we try to maintain relationships and accomplish something for the betterment of society, our values can be our north star. Our decisions will not always be popular; and as much as we wish it were different, we know we might alienate some individuals. However, when our decisions are based on our values, we have a better chance of living a congruent life.
Thankfully, we are not required to be a Lone Ranger in our leadership. We can connect with others who will encourage us and strengthen our skillset. Concepts, such as leading from our values and others, will be considered in more depth in the upcoming 4-part Self-Differentiated Leader Series offered in January and February. For more information click here. We invite you to join us, both for your own growth and encouragement, as well as contributing to the learning of others.
May all our wonderings and wanderings lead us home.
