5 ways to bounce back (sometimes even stronger)
These last 19 to 20 months have been deeply challenging for many leaders and organizations. But this isn't the first time a challenge has been experienced. Nor will it be the last.
How to move from ‘hope’ to confidence during turbulent times
Hope is a strong biblical word, but too often we use it as a fantastical projection of a desired end.
Frustrated or tired as a leader? 5 lessons from elite athletes you need to know
Leaders, like athletes, need to rest if they want to perform at a higher level. My readers know that athletics and fitness are a significant part of my life. I've been a strength and conditioning instructor for over ten years. I practice Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. I'm learning new gymnastics skills like the rings, parallel bars and hand balancing. I'm in my mid 40's. I feel the accumulation of old injuries. But I don't see any reason to slow down yet. While some people approach fitness as a difficult habit to keep, I find it to be a byproduct of my lifestyle. [...]
How Jesus’ leadership influenced my everyday emails
How can you get more people to open and read your emails?
How the paper-straw problem impacts our churches
If you could wave a magic wand to fix one issue in your church, what would it be? Lack of volunteers? Poor engagement in community outreach? Low levels of financial giving?
How does your business reflect your faith?
Bob's pursuit of success may have achieved worldly riches, but it also led him down the road of alcoholism, cost him his first marriage and almost cost him his second.
10 commandments for building magnetic relationships with employees
Many employers are finding it harder than ever to fully staff up. However, while some organizations struggle to find 'warm body' hires, others have retained high-performing teams through all of the turmoil and uncertainty of this last year. To attract and retain the best people, you need to do two things. First, build a magnetic culture. Second, become a magnetic manager and leader. The magnetic managers and leaders aren't necessarily charismatic or the life of the party. But they attract and retain great people. They know how to build and keep productive relationships. Here are the 10 Commandments to become [...]
Who imitates you as you imitate Christ?
At whose shoulder do you stand to learn the rhythms and routines, the lifestyle of discipleship? Who provides you with instruction, example, and encouragement?
3 ways to be a hope dealer
Napoleon Bonaparte is quoted as saying, “A leader is a dealer in hope.” As biblical leaders, we have the greatest hope there is—in Jesus Christ alone. But what about this extended season we’re in? At times, hope seems hard to find. It feels hard to muster up. It feels hard to deal out.
Investing in clarity prevents conflict
One of the most common sources of organizational conflict is ambiguity regarding expectations; particularly, those wrapped up in the concepts of roles, responsibilities and organizational goals.
6 ways social media toxicity is hurting pastors
Pastors of 20 years ago had to deal with the occasional anonymous hate mail, but today, pastors can get hit daily with negative social media posts.
Become a better leader by learning to follow better
There is no MBA program that elevates the concept of followership as an essential element of leading a successful enterprise. But followership is essential to leadership done well.
The pastoral search committee process: Broken and ineffective
Ever wait for a search committee to make its selection? Ever get frustrated with the length of time you have had to wait?
Leadership lessons simplified: Whatever he says, do it
We experience transformation when we know what Jesus says and turn that knowledge into obedient activity.
Jesus never ran: 5 tips for leaders
Are you tired? Do you feel like you are running fast and then other days you are running faster?
Book review: Gentle and Lowly, by Dane Ortlund
This book is well written and digs into key Scriptures, some of which are not often studied by the average Christian.
One of the stupidest things I did in 44 years of marriage
What is that stupid thing I did in marriage? To be clear, I have not done this act of stupidity one time, but many times. Too many times. You would think I would learn by now.
How to create a culture of accountability
Many leaders struggle with building cultures of accountability. As a result, they spend an enormous amount of time, energy, and resources chasing after their tails.
The 7 critical ingredients of effective executive communication
Think of the main messages you need to communicate over this next week, month or season of your organizational life. Take 15-20 minutes to think through the questions I've asked here.
Why culture is so powerful and how to shape it
Like water to the fish, culture is pervasive and omnipresent in our workplaces. Unlike water to a fish, leaders have the opportunity to be shapers and crafters of their culture.
