2021 marked my 30th year of faith-based organizational leadership. I’m thankful for God’s involvement in my journey. He has done “immeasurably more than I could ask or imagine…” even in the rough stretches. Here's a list of leadership lessons God has given me over the years – my “30 for 30.” May it be a blessing to you!
- People and situations are never as bad or good as you think they are.
- Sometimes you learn the most from your harshest critics.
- It's ok if you don't have all the answers.
- Forgiveness is an art, not a science.
- The office (work) will always be there. Spend more time with family and friends.
- Focus your time on what is important vs what is popular. If both intersect, great, but choose important over popular every time.
- The pathway of learning goes through the valley of mistakes.
- Focus on sorting out who you are as a leader, not who people think you are.
- People love to gamble with your chips.
- Every organizational problem is not a nail, so leadership should not be a hammer.
- Our foundation for faith-based organizational leadership is personal holiness. Be intentional and never take it for granted.
- What you have is way more important to your success than what you don’t have.
- Self-awareness is non-negotiable. Know what you know; be humble about what you don't know; proceed accordingly.
- Make peace with the fact that you need to raise money for ministry.
- When God wants ministry done, money shows up.
- As much as possible never speak of major problems unless you have possible solutions.
- Don't burn yourself out for Jesus. Leadership is exhausting so take your days off and use your vacation time. All of it!
- Being a committed member of a healthy local church is not optional.
- Leaders are made, not born. Treat all staff as if they have the potential to develop into one.
- Make those tough decisions that might get you fired.
- Keep three people in your life: a mentor, a close colleague, and a mentee.
- Vulnerability and transparency create trust with those you lead.
- Lots of ideas are great on paper but horrible in reality.
- Leadership isn't primarily about what you do but who you are. Become a practical theologian. It is your moral compass.
- Leadership is a team activity, not a solo project.
- Effective communication is the most underrated part of leading.
- Your leadership style will not be loved by everyone. Don't let this hold you back.
- Your primary job as a leader is to lead your organization towards solutions to the problems it encounters.
- For your organization to achieve its mission you will have to endure times of pain.
- Guard your heart.
Click here to purchase Alvin's latest book, Uncommon Church.