Leading Work and Men

            Today we discussed the difference between Task and Relational leaders, as well as those who are inactive, balanced, and adaptable.  According to our self-assessment, I scored in the balanced section, while inclining Task leadership.  In response to this, we are to develop three goals for leadership improvement with three action steps for the accomplishment of each.

            First, as a leader of Beyond Help or of lessons in general, I want to be more organized in the planning and presentation of devotional lessons.  One way to do this is to begin planning sooner, that is, to plan and pray for the devotion and study the text intensely a full week in advance.  This would give time to become familiar with the text.              I could also practice my lesson in advance, instead of just picking a text and a format and winging it.  Furthermore, I could begin praying for the lesson and its hearers a full week in advance.

            Second, as a Task-leaning leader, I will pay more attention to the people I am directing.  For one thing, I must consider how my presentation of orders is perceived.  I often steamroll over people when I think something needs to get done, and become bossy.  I must remember that the way I say things does not always portray a pure heart, and not only do I have wrong motives sometimes, but sometimes my right motives are perceived as negative because of my presentation.  Also, I need to remember that the people I am leading are, in fact, people, and care about them personally and not just their work performance.  Finally, I can ask for their input in decision making.

            Finally, I lean a little too relationally in regards to quality of work.  May I be unafraid to confront people when they are not doing a good job.  I can do this first by articulating that my rebuke concerning the quality of their work is not a personal attack on them.  Then I can clarify that the work they have done is not acceptable, and finally demonstrate to them by example how to do it right.  Add to this also the positive affirmation which follows a job well done.