Leaders who excel in today’s ministry or marketplace constantly seek to add new insights to their leadership toolbox. Consider how these three brain networks can positively influence how you lead.

In the past, I’ve made the case for why Christians should focus on pursuing mastery of one thing at a time vocationally and what we should be looking for in our “one thing.” But how you can achieve mastery of your craft for the glory of God and the good of others?

One of the defining traits of leadership is the ability to "inspire a shared vision."

When we forget to stop, slow down, and remember what is most important we are blind to what God wants us to see. Make sure your eyes are open to what really matters.

As leaders, we're caught up in constant comparison and feel inadequate if we’re not moving toward the "next stage." You may dream of leading a big organization, but your wiring keeps pulling you back to a small one. So … what are you? A relational leader or an organizational leader?

Leadership, especially ministry leadership, can be a draining endeavor. The continual demands upon the leader take an emotional toll and many times the leader finds himself or herself in an unhealthy emotional state and this inevitably affects them personally, in their family, and in ministry.

Leadership legacies are built more on kindness than they are on accomplishments. Kindness is action-oriented, and is an essential component to influencing lasting impact. So, what are the qualities that make up kind leadership?

Developing a growth mindset will take intentionality. You will have to focus on the areas you need to grow in, which aren’t always the fun areas to focus on. But, when you develop a growth mindset, you will find yourself going to places you never imagined possible. You’ll also take those you lead along for the ride.

You don’t have to guess whether you’re growing as a leader. You can take a simple test to know for sure. Here are three indicators to look for.

As you work toward becoming a more compassionate leader, keep the following thoughts in mind.

If a leader lacks confidence, they will have difficulty leading others.

I’ve seen many pastors with poor boundaries. Sometimes I’ve not kept healthy ones myself. Why is that so?

If you don’t think change is possible, you probably will never change.

“Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance” (1 Corinthians 13:7, NLT).

Attempting to take control when we shouldn’t is a serious leadership mistake.

A healthy brain helps us become more resilient, be more present for those we lead, think more clearly, and, well, lead better.

Should I be hopeful or concerned? Happy or sad?