10 Leadership Traps to Avoid in Ministry

Ron Edmondson more from this author »

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Tags: Leadership General (add tag)

Scripture: John 3:3-10:9
John 3:3-10:20
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Date Published: 3/17/2012

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Ron Edmondson: "Leaders should energize others to realize their dreams, not stifle them."

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There are some things in leadership that I could honestly say I despise. Perhaps you have your own list, but this is mine.

Here are 10 things that drive me crazy in leadership:

1. Responsibility without authority

If you ask someone to lead something, then let them lead.

2. Small-mindedness

I like big dreams and those who dream them. I’ve never once out-dreamed God. Neither have you.

3. Naysayers

There is always someone who says it can’t be done.

4. Laziness

Not only is it a sin, if it is allowed to fester it can be contagious or disruptive to an organization.

5. Settling

Even if it involves conflict, I want to push for best over mediocre.

6. Popularity seeking

Leaders who say what they think people want to hear in order to be liked drive me nuts. (Not sure they are technically leaders.)

7. Power hunger

Leaders who are easily threatened by others or who always try to control others limit people and organizations.

8. Caution out of fear

I prefer a bold faith every time.

9. Bullied management

Some leaders get their way from force. That seems cowardly to me.

10. Passion squelchers

Leaders should energize others to realize their dreams, not stifle them.

What are some things on your list?

Ron Edmondson is a pastor and church leader passionate about planting churches, helping established churches thrive, and assisting pastors and those in ministry think through leadership, strategy and life. Ron has over 20 years of business experience, mostly as a self-employed business owner, and he's been in full-time ministry for over eight years.