Leaders push through obstacles.

Leaders are known to push through any obstacle life might put in their way. Pulling all-nighters to get a project completed. Never taking a sick day; showing up for work regardless of personal health. Keeping personal loss a secret despite the pain.

We wear these attributes as badges of honour, but there’s just one problem.

It’s actually poor leadership.

It gets worse when we start expecting this type of unhealthy work ethic from the people on our team. It shows a lack of respect and a lack of compassion. In Matthew 9, we read:

“When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd.“ (9:36)

This isn’t the only time Jesus is overwhelmed with compassion for others. In Matthew 14 he has compassion on the sick, in Matthew 20 compassion for the blind, in Luke 7 compassion for a woman who’s son has died.

Surely, all leadership should be marked by some level of compassion. Yet, when we look over our team or staff, do we feel any compassion?

This is one of my greatest struggles.

It’s true! Showing compassion is one of my greatest struggles as a leader. My nature is to drive toward the projected goal, neglecting the people around me. It’s been a huge problem in the past, and continues to be an area of growth for my leadership.

Maybe you struggle with this as well? What can we do to make things better?

Well, here’s an example. The next time someone calls in sick, has a personal crisis or a family emergency; perhaps we should leave the details in the Lord’s hands. The temptation will be to police time off, or be suspicious about whether or not it’s a valid excuse.

Don’t do it.

Despite our internal monologue, our team will not see us as push-overs! Instead, they will see a more personal side of our leadership and therefore, respect us more.

Take a read through the ninth chapter of Matthew. Pay attention to the compassion that is present throughout Christ’s leadership.

• How does it compare to our own leadership?
• How we have treated our staff team in recent months?
• Have we trusted them and been kind when they are ill or hurting?

If we haven’t, maybe it’s time to pull out our calendars and make some appointments? We might need to speak with some of our team and make things right?

It’s time to make a fresh start as a leader who shows some compassion.

Joint the Conversation; Share Your Thoughts

Do you pull all-nighters to get projects completed? Do you pride yourself on never having a sick day? Do you expect this kind of behaviour from your staff and /or coworkers?