Leadership has been defined in so many ways by different authors and authorities.The writer would like to use one definition by Oswald Sanders which states that leadership is “influence “.
As one climbs the leadership ladder ,it is important to take note of some things that may work against you to bring you down .
Below are some of the things that one needs to be careful about to avoid a premature termination of a leadeship call:
1 .The internal insecurities which may make you feel everyone is trying to minimize you as a leader .
2.The urge to make people “feel” you are in charge .
3.The temptation to manipulate and control others to keep them subdued.
4.A strong feeling that some negative forces of darkness or witchcraft are after your leadership calling.
5 .A belief that you are inferior .
6.Fear of your past which may be unknown to people you lead .
7.Fear of failure
The list goes on and on.
The writer would like to suggest some ways to manage and deal with some of the above issues .
a) Get training for the leadership role you assume .Acquire as much info and knowledge as possible .Get technocrats to assist you .Surround yourself with people who know how to do the work .
b)Understand that it is a myth that any human being can be fully in charge of any assignment .Only God is in control .Human beings are just managers and stewards of authority which is derived from God .
You don’t need to prove anything .Let your work speak for you .Be secure in what you do .
c) When it comes to issues of controlling people and manipulating them realize that it is not sustainable .When people respect you for what you stand for and who you are ,your leadership role becomes satisfying and you enjoy it rather than endure it.
d) What you focus on grows .What you frequently talks about gets amplified.Talk positively about the ability that God has given you to lead others .Realize that you have a greater connection that sustains your leadership .If you notice that there are certain forces or spirits that are against your rising in leadership kneel before God and ask Him to help you. Rise from the kneeing posture and address those spirits using the name of Jesus Christ .Renounce any connection with failure and shame.
e) Let this truth sink in your heart that the past is history ,tomorrow is a mystery but today is a gift so enjoy today .Don’t allow the past to bleed into the present and contaminate your future .You can’t change your past .You can do something now to change your narrative .
Leadeship requires tenacity and resilience .It is not for the faint hearted !!!
The writer Professor Elias Chakabwata is a leadeship consultant and organizational growth expert .He can be contacted on 0732288687.
