Careful with Leaders

 

Leadership has become something that many people strive for. If you type in “leadership” into Google, LinkedIn or your favorite podcast app, you’ll find thousands of articles and discussions about the topic. 

We have to be careful who we follow as leaders. Too often we find someone who we align with. We like their thoughts and their philosophy. We start to listen to them more and it can feel like they are saying what we are thinking. WHOA….right? 

The problem is that leaders are still people. They are going to make mistakes. They all have some dark corners that they want to keep out of the light - some thoughts, past mistakes. We are all flawed, no one is perfect. 

We should listen to leaders. We should consider what they are saying, but live with discernment and never go “all-in” with one. If they are anyone but Jesus, they have made mistakes. 

I tend to listen to many leaders, seeing them more as subject-matter experts. I listen and then think about it. I take it in and let it cook. Often one piece of their ideas will stick and will blend with other ideas I have kept. I couldn’t name a leader I follow because people often are untrustable and I’m not interested in their name, just their ideas.

Listen to ideas and think about them. Use common sense and faith to help you form your own philosophy. Anchor it with good values and you’ll find discernment to guide your life. Lastly, I recommend the Bible as being the centerpiece for deciding what is right or wrong. My faith in God, belief in the teachings of Jesus and guidance of the Holy Spirit is what helps me walk through life without fear, low anxiety and happiness.