The story...
About twenty years ago, my assigned Human Resources representative and I were discussing ongoing problems within my work group that she characterized and labeled as "stinking thinking." Then she said something like: "They need a leader to help them: remember past successes and celebrate new ones, know they're capable; feel valued; serve each other; view problems as opportunities; test new ways often; learn alongside others habitually; respect each other... - then they'll engage and be the best version of themselves together. As their manager and leader, what's your part in making this happen?"
What did I do differently? Focused on demonstrating RESPECT for all work group members in word and deed. Played together more often - a Friday afternoon paint-ball session helped build teamwork. Learned more about each group member and what/who was important to them. We solved interpersonal disputes quickly in more sustainable ways - they knew that they'd be working it out in my office, and even bring in H.R. help, if they didn't work it out together. There were many positive changes that we made together; yet, much of the change started with me being a better leader and manger.
Yes, there was some stinking thinking going on within me that was strangely reflected within the group's interactions, behaviors, and performance together. I started with "me" rather than attempting to craft plans to fix the problems that I could identify with "them." The resulting changes in what we did, and who we were, were worthy of the transformation investment. I became a better leader, manager, and person as a result of the growing that we worked out together - in community.
The only church in town will easily find fault within each other as they worship, praise, learn, grow, and serve together. Real change and growth will occur when they internalize the value of the slogan "let the change begin with me." The gospel will offer the opportunity for each person to be a new creature in Christ - the intended version of you. Then each person, and the group as a whole, can be free "in deed." (Galatians 5:1).
Just for today...
"I watched, monitored, controlled, and exercised my need to feel hurt. I felt self-pity, embarrassment, superiority, resentment, and anger. All of these took obsessive turns filling my mind and heart. I wondered why I indulged in these draining behaviors and emotions, which only resulted in further misery for me." Hope for Today (p. 30)
"Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creature; the old things passed away; behold, new things have come." 1 Corinthians 5:17 (NASB)
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