“Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother’s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye?
— Matthew 7:3
Have you ever noticed how groups comprised of honestly self-aware folks seem to cooperate so effortlessly, consistently achieving their goals? Likewise, the groups with hawkish eyes trained mostly on their teammates are so often marked by endless unnecessary conflicts and missed opportunities.
Want to help those in need? As so often expressed throughout the ages, if we’re setting out to change the world for the better, it’s usually best to get down to the business of changing ourselves first. Yep, real lasting change doesn’t happen by just focusing on fixing external problems. It begins with personal growth and transformation – preferably transformation in Christ.
By improving our own actions, habits, and attitudes, we create a “ripple effect” that influences those around us (See Be a Light at the Supermarket). By being the change we want to see, we must become a living example for others to follow.
I know, we want to rush out and be selfless, and I don’t want to impede anyone. But that doesn’t mean that taking some time to look inward is a bad thing. Let’s all have a good look, take responsibility, and plan on leading better by example. Personal change is an important part of the whole ”Go Forth” process, and a highly effective way to help ensure we are truly a part of the solution – a force for positive change in our communities as we learn how to best cooperate with our neighbors.
Is it a complicated fix? Fortunately, no. If you want to lead, it’s as simple as being a good resource for your team. How are you setting them up for success? Rather than a top-down approach, how are you making yourself available to them? Commit to constant and never-ending improvement with small, incremental changes. Next right steps. For example, instead of “Oh, here comes so-and-so again,” try fostering an environment where folks feel comfortable sharing their ideas and poking holes in your ideas. Then, change your mantra slightly to, “Here’s comes so-and-so again, I wonder what he/she has to say.”
Even that small tweak in your attitude will make a big difference!
