Leadership in Time of Conflict and Change

Today we celebrate Presidents Day especially remembering George Washington and Abraham Lincoln. Both were great leaders at crucial times in our nation’s history. Washington led the nation in its infancy bringing together 13 colonies- new sovereign states- to form a union. Moving from monarchy to democracy – from separate colonies to a unified nation was no easy task. Lincoln had to lead a divided nation in the midst of a major conflict.

Leading in a time of change and conflict is difficult to say the least. John Kotter, former Harvard Business School Professor, writes there are  key factors in leading in a time of crisis and change. In such times, a leader needs to remain focused on the goal. Both Washington and Lincoln were focused on the goal of  ‘united states’ in America.

Both Washington and Lincoln knew there was as urgency about their task; waiting too long would result in failure to unite or reunite a nation. While both were  strong individuals, they  knew how to build a team around them.  Lincoln did care for some of his generals personally, but he knew they were great military leaders and could win battles. Both men empowered their team to use their skills to mold a nation

Lincoln and Washington had a vision for a strong nation based on democratic principles and both would help to communicate that vision to the people as Lincoln did so masterfully in the Gettysburg Address. (I recently viewed a documentary on Lincoln that detailed how he used the technology of his day – the newspapers- to articulate his views as he ran for the Republican nomination. The press would print his speeches so that thousands read what only a few hundred would hear him say in person- his Tweet/Facebook.)

Generating short term wins helps people to believe in the direction you are leading.  Washington had to confront the Whiskey Rebellion in order to establish the right of the federal government to tax.

Both leaders would not let up. They fought the temptation to give into the negative and remained focused on their mission. They worked to make the change stick. Before he was assassinated, Lincoln already was working on ways to bring the southern states back into the fold of the union—something that many resisted and almost caused the successful   impeachment of Andrew Johnson.

The Up Rising

Like you, I have been watching the historic events in Egypt. The commitment, courage, and calm of the demonstrators has been inspiring. It got me to thinking. Would I be willing to take such a courageous stand? If so,what would be the cause? Yes, I have written to congress, signed petitions, but would I stand for a week in the city square for a cause  unsure of safety and the outcome?

Mubarak 's desire to keep control and his unwillingness to deal with the demonstrations has weaken his ability to lead effective change in his country. When my position or views are challenged, how do I respond? Become defensive, ignore the opposition, fight?

While what we may face in opposition pales in comparison to what the Egyptians are facing, there are lessons to be learned. Several key values are important in  challenging and chaotic situations/times.  1) Be clear about you purpose/mission. The demonstrators are  clear about their purpose and mission. 2) Be willing to dialogue -speak, but also listen. (Something Mubarak  was unable to do effectively.)   Not every challenge that comes your way is valid, but that will only become clear if there is dialogue. 3) Patience and calm are strong virtues and give strength to resolve. 4) Have the courage to stand firm ,weather,  and face the opposition for the long haul; too often it is easier to give in or give up.

What thoughts do you have ?

PS As  I post  this Mubarak has left the Capital and turned power over to the Army

When Snow Changes Our Plans!!

Snow, sleet , rain... oh the fun of living in Pennsylvania. But Dallas has snow too!! All that fine tuned, orchestrated, and billion dollar preparation for the big game may need some changes to the game plan. I do feel bad for Steeler and Packer fans who may not get to the game, but Jerry Jones' billion dollar stadium complex  has to bow to mother nature. There is something ironic about $3500  tickets and $1000 parking spots at Walmart across the street and 4 inches of snow upsetting plans!

It is frustrating and disappointing when  our all our planning for something has to adjust or change. That is why it is good to have a plan B.

 We live a world  in world of change and the unexpected...look at Egypt this week. Leaders need to be flexible and ready to adapt. We cannot always control everything!  We need the best input, plans, and clarity about  our purpose,  but then we need to  decide, trust,  and move forward .And if it snows, sleets, or rains again, perhaps relax, take a pause, reflect, and then begin the process  again.
                                                                                
 PS  Go  Steelers!!

Church Meetings That Matter

Is this true for your church???

I recently led  a workshop on " Church Meetings That Matter" at the PRC. Participants shared what they enjoyed about  serving on a church board: know what is going on, sense of excitement as we move forward, sense of accomplishment, becoming better acquainted with the ministry and workings of the church. Frustrations were: lack of discipline on the part of some board members, long meetings, slow or lack of decision making, too much reporting, lack of enough prayer, being caught off guard or blind sided, lack of funds, and the disconnect of what the Board is doing and the congregation- communication.
While we did spend time on the nuts an bolts of an effective meeting
( agenda, reports  sent out ahead of time)  a major focus was on the  importance  of leadership development. Time  needs to be spent on building relationships,learning, and the spiritual growth  of leaders. Several recent studies on effective congregations point out that leaders who are growing spiritually and boards that are focused on prayer and discernment  are keys to effective ministry.

Below is a summary check list for key items for effective boards and meetings: How would you rate your church?

Trust among members

Unity

In Essentials -Unity ; In non Essentials-Freedom

In all things- Love

Willingness to deal and accept conflict

Common Vision &  Direction

Board Membership is about leadership

People serve out of their spiritual gifts

Building Relationships

Spiritual Growth

Training

Fun ,Drama, Excitement

Clear Agenda and Purpose

Accountability and follow up

Honest Participation and Sharing

Discernment

Major issues not voted on first time

Decisions Made

Permission Giving

Inclusion ages, long time members, newer members, gender, race

Consistency  -not major turnover

Length and number of meetings

Setting conducive fo rmeetings

Board Size   12-14     Committees  5-7

Appropriate organization for size of congregation  WHAT IDEAS DO YOU HAVE FOR EFFECTIVE BOARDS AND MEETINGS??