Leading People Verses Controlling People
Published: July 29, 2009
In my years in business and churches I have known many people who claim to be leaders, but they are actually nothing more than controllers of people. There is a huge difference in leading and controlling. The differences between leading and controlling are almost exact opposites:
Characteristics of leading people:
* Encourages creativity
* Develops people rather than programs
* Builds healthy relationships with followers
* Models a healthy way
* More focused on needs of followers
* People follow by choice
* Empowers people
Characteristics of controlling people:
* Stifles personal growth
* Discourages creativity
* Keeps followers at a distance
* Insists on a set way
* More focused on needs of the controller
* People follow by force
* Devours people
It may be easier to simply make people do what you want them to do and have them carry out your agenda, but leadership is more of an art than that.
Leading people effectively means helping people with different skills, talents and interests and leading them to accomplish an established vision and goals.
Have you ever worked for a controller?
Be honest with yourself, are you leading people, or do you claim to be a leader, but you are really a controller?
Ron Edmondson is a pastor and church leader. He believes in planting churches, helping established churches thrive, and helping pastors and those in ministry think through leadership, strategy and life. His greatest desire is God’s glory and the Kingdom. He enjoys time with his wife Cheryl and their amazing boys, Jeremy and Nate. You can find Ron blogging at http://www.ronedmondson.com
Copyright © 2008 Ron Edmondson. All rights reserved.
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Leading People Verses Controlling People
Published: July 29, 2009
Ron Edmondson shares the clear differences between the two.
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