Leaders who are centered

We live in a dynamic world with a pace that is ever-increasing. Navigating this change as leaders, with the multitude of decisions made on a daily basis, requires finding one’s center as a leader. Your center can be likened to an anchor on a ship and 'grounds you' when storms arise, allowing you to draw from your authenticity, sense of purpose, and moral compass. I remember reading Stephen Covey’s book on Principle-Centered Leadership, which transformed my understanding of the necessity of being 'principle-centered.'

The journey to finding one's center involves aligning professional responsibilities with spiritual values. We explore the importance of finding your center as a Christian leader in the workplace and how it can positively impact your leadership style and organizational culture.

Your center can be likened to an anchor on a ship and 'grounds you' when storms arise, allowing you to draw from your authenticity, sense of purpose, and moral compass.

From your Identity

The core of finding your center is an understanding of your identity as a Christian. Before I became a Christian, I was directionless and swayed by multiple opinions on various issues, largely because I did not know who I was, my purpose, and direction. Knowing who I am in Christ provided a solid foundation for my leadership style, embracing the qualities of Jesus such as humility (not weakness), integrity, and compassion. This has enabled me to be strong in navigating challenges with resilience, avoiding immediate judgment of others, and seeking to create a positive working environment.

Values, Actions, and Ethical Dilemmas

Through a colleague of mine at the university, Dr. Abiola Makinwa, I have learned the importance of values being aligned with actions. There is a valuable online tool she has created called IntegrityDLM, a free resource. This tool is helpful in integrating your own principles into a decision-making process. The genius of this tool is that you are not only able to determine your own values hierarchy but also that of your team. It is then interesting to compare the two.

Ethical dilemmas in decision-making are quite common for leaders. The Bible serves as my center and guide for ethical conduct in both professional and personal life. This does not mean there will not be a struggle, but I know where my grounding comes from. What amazes me is that, in spite of being a Christian leader for around 20 years, holding a Master's Degree in Theology, I still find God speaks to me with 'treasures' of life and wisdom that are fresh and many times have not been seen before. With biblical principles, I am able to navigate complex situations with confidence and strength, building trust.

The Bible serves as my center and guide for ethical conduct in both professional and personal life.

Building a Supportive and Accountable Community Around You

As a leader, we do not walk alone. Building a supportive community within the workplace allows for mutual encouragement, accountability, and growth. Creating open communication and a culture of empathy fosters a sense of belonging and unity among team members. This community becomes a source of strength, helping you stay grounded in your faith while navigating the challenges of leadership."

As a leader where do you find your center when it comes to making decisions for your life and other leadership decisions? What grounds you? Can you hold your ground in the midst of a torrent of ideas and influences or are you easily swayed. Knowing your values that are aligned with actions in the midst of moral uncertainty is a strength and enables you to be strong instead of opting for weakness and compromise. We do this not alone but building a supportive and accountable community around you to further strengthen you.

Let’s take up the call to be leaders who are centered, leaders of conviction and leaders of accountability!