Conversations not Commands

Thoughts from daily Bible reading for today – October 30, 2015 

Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. Ephesians 4:29

I am learning that good leadership involves ongoing conversation, not instant commands. Our leadership team of five have two 30 minute calls a week to talk through the implementation of strategic initiatives. We all trust each other and think the best of one another. Our free flowing conversations over three or four topics create clarity, provide solutions and offer support. Respect for all is a result. Conversations can take longer, but the execution is shorter and more efficient.

For instance, on one of our recent calls a team member needed content ideas around leadership topics. He and his team had a deadline to develop quality material, but he wanted to make sure the articles, webinars and newsletters were valuable for the audience. In 40 minutes, five engaged thinkers came up with six compelling themes. By himself, the leader in charge could have come up with good ideas, but not the best—and it would have taken much longer. We is better than me.

“Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up” (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10).

In a crisis, collaboration may take a back seat while a serious situation is resolved, but normally ongoing discussion and debate discovers the best outcome. Do you work well with others, or would you rather do your work by yourself? Take the time to invest in discussions with other team members and it will save you time. You may be able to make quicker decisions by yourself, but who will own the follow through of the project? Conversations create understanding, trust and support. One perspective is adequate at best, but several insights harvest the best solutions.

If you lead a group, team or organization, avoid the temptation to intimidate with your anger or displeasure. Anyone can get mad and pitch a fit in hopes of driving the team to results through guilt. But temper tantrums are not a sustainable leadership style. You may see short term results, but you sacrifice the long term health of the work culture. In humility and faith be vulnerable in ongoing conversations with your team. Admit you know “what” needs to be done, but you need input from the team on “how” to execute. Humble leaders are conversational not commanding.

“Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification” (Romans 14:19).

Prayer: Heavenly Father grow my patience and faith to facilitate conversations instead of commanding results. 

Application: Who do I need to involve in ongoing discussions about a work project?

Related Readings: Psalm 34:14; Matthew 12:36; Ephesians 5:4; Colossians 3:8; Hebrews 12:14

Post/Tweet this today: We is better than me. #conversations #WisdomHunters

Worship Resource: 4 minute video- Lauren Daigle- Loyal

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