I love learning about history, particularly about WWII. I find the stories of the greatest generation inspiring and extremely thought-provoking. Some of the greatest leaders in the last century came out of the 1930s, 1940s, and 1950s. Recently, I finished two fascinating books about Presidents Franklin Delano Roosevelt (1944) and Harry S. Truman (The Accidental President).
One of the most striking observations of both presidents was their ability to lead when they weren’t the leader. Of course they were the clear leaders of the United States, but they were equals during negotiations with other world leaders. Both FDR and Truman knew they must be disciplined to listen and be personally fit to lead.
As disciplined listeners FDR and Truman took the time to clearly understand the explicit and implicit goals of their peers.
- What are the explicit goals? In most churches this is the mission statement posted in your bulletin or the words posted on the walls around your building. It is important to have explicit goals giving your church purpose. Many of the people visiting your church will be drawn to a place that has clear purpose for them and their community.
- What are the implicit goals? Sometimes these goals aren’t as easy to communicate. Implicit goals are not plainly expressed and could take a staff member or regular attender months to uncover. Often implicit goals are a reflection of your culture. In some cases the implicit goals overrule the explicit goals.
Leading personally means…
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Click here to read the rest of the story from our content source/partners – Thom Rainer.