As a leader, I have always strived for a goal. It is not a popular one in leadership circles but it is one I still believe in wholeheartedly. The goal is simply to be received as a friend to those who are accountable to me, those who follow me, and those with whom I have influence.
Sometimes friendship is seen as something people, especially employees, might abuse and I know we have all had negative experiences with those who seek to take advantage of us. However, fear and suspicion shouldn’t shape the way we view others and especially future relationships we build. As a leader, don’t be afraid to share your belief in people and let them know that you’re for them. I figured, if it’s good enough for Jesus – one who has made it clear it is how He chooses to relate to His followers – it ought to be good enough for me as I lead in His name.
John 15:15 niv “I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master’s business. Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you.”
A real friend is one who desires the best in you; would risk comfort to tell you the truth and believes in your highest potential. They are never embarrassed to be seen with you, and desire to share their happiest moments with you. For those whom I have the privilege of leading, I hope I can always be a friend indeed!
David
This is a great blog entry. Although I’ve read that scripture many times; I never put it together that Jesus considered his core disciples friends. Although it can be uncomfortable to be vulnerable on that level before those you lead, it’s comforting to see that Jesus (the greatest leader of all) modeled it for us.
Jeff