There are still many persistent myths about leadership. People form stereotypes or expectations in their minds about what a leader is, and therefore often discount themselves in the process. I’m probably not the only one who has ever thought, “If I’m not like that, then maybe I’m not really a leader.” But what if our perceptions of leadership need myth-busting so that we can embrace the opportunities we may encounter? Here are three for starters:
Myth 1 – Leaders have a more-is-more personality
Reality – Every personality has strengths and weaknesses, and in my experience, there are no perfectly equipped people. So, are you an ENTJ on the Myers Briggs test or a 3 on the Enneagram? That’s great, but if you’re not, that does not mean you cannot lead. In fact, if leadership is about using our gifts and strengths to foster the success and wellbeing of others, it is less about personality and more about purpose. In truth, a combination of personalities and strengths on a team will be required. What we each uniquely bring to the world each day can and should be used to make a difference.
Myth 2 – Leaders always run at a fast pace
Reality –While emails and deadlines sometimes demand frenetic activity, living an always-on, always-hectic life is both unsustainable for us and those we lead. As leadership guru Stephen Covey once said: “Efficiency with people is ineffective. With people, fast is slow and slow is fast.” Similarly, Japanese theologian Kosuke Koyama reminds us that Jesus didn’t run or rush in his ministry and nor should we, saying, “Love has its speed. It is a spiritual speed. It is a different kind of speed from the technological speed to which we are accustomed. It goes on in the depth of our life, whether we notice or not, at three miles an hour. It is the speed we walk and therefore the speed the love of God walks.” When our diaries are crammed, our health is compromised, or our resources are stretched we are less able to lead and love others well. It is not failure to know the season we are in and to find a sustainable pace; it is wisdom.
Myth 3 – Leaders have all the answers
Reality – Leaders know how to ask the right questions. I love how Jesus, the greatest leader to have ever lived, asked so many questions. He caused others to reflect and to adapt their thinking as a result. Rather than ordering people to behave a certain way, he instead invited them to become a certain kind of person. Yes, sometimes leaders do have create solutions, agree a decision or provide a path ahead, but the best leaders collaborate and know how to ask for advice and support. In truth, while myths like this might make leaders look or sound good, it’s a fragile façade. Instead let’s embrace the reality of who we are and ask God who he has called us to serve today.
Related Content
