Why do you lead? Why do I?
The answer lies in our motivation. When I hop in the car to drive, I have a destination in mind. The same is true for leadership, but usually that destination, my motivation, is buried deep inside. Why do I lead?
Often, our motivation starts with ambition; we are driven towards a certain goal. The word ambition comes from a Latin word meaning “campaigning for promotion.” If I’m honest, sometimes I lead to be seen. I have a deep need to be noticed and accepted. Sometimes I lead because I like the perks. I like being able to tell people to “go-fer” this and “go-fer” that. Or the extra money that sometimes comes with it. When I lead for me, I am campaigning for me. I am at the center.
That is not leadership. This is narcissism. It is vanity; self-centeredness with a grandiose view of one’s talents and a craving for other’s admiration. Ouch! We all know that the first step to recovery is admitting we have a problem. Let’s just call it out. Sometimes we lead for the wrong reasons.
Yet, we also know that: “to aspire to leadership is an honorable ambition.” 1 Timothy 3:1 There is an honorable type of motivation for leadership. “True greatness, true leadership, is found in giving yourself in service to others, not in coaxing or inducing others to serve you.” (Sanders) An honorable ambition is to serve others. To serve the mission. My family. My church and community. When I lead out of a deep inner compulsion to utilize the gifts and passions given to me, that is honorable. The same is true when I lead out of a deep desire to maximize the gifts and talents of others. When I am compelled to provide clarity and direction. When I am driven, to make sense out chaos. And have a desire to create a better tomorrow.
Anything less is narcissistic and driving in the wrong direction.
Anything less is narcissistic and driving in the wrong direction.
“Let nothing be done out of selfish ambition or conceit” Philippians 2:3
