How Healthy Are You?

So you want to be a leader? That’s easy. Oh, you want to be good leader? Well, that’s something else. The difference in being a leader and a good leader (even a great one) is answered in one question; How Healthy Are You?

Healthy Leaders all have a few basic traits in common:

1. They have a solid foundation of spiritual and emotional health.

I know a good leader when I see one because their strength is from the Lord. They lead out of who He is not who they are. When you lead from your own strength your benefit is short-lived and impact is limited. Long-term success in the kingdom is gained by spending time with the King. John 15:4-5 (NIV) “Remain in me, as I also remain in you…” Healthy leaders guard their hearts at all times. If you’re not concerned that your heart might become hard, it already is.

They also know how to listen, are open to feedback and seek out the input of others to help them grow.

2. They have healthy boundaries.

One of the telltale signs of an unhealthy leader is the lack of personal boundaries. Share on XMany people, even leaders, can fall into the “Yes Pit” and not find their way out. And why wouldn’t you say Yes? We belong to an amazing organization, The Church, and it’s the hope of the world. Whatever they need we’re there to get it done, right? Wrong! A good leader knows when their tank is running low, and when to say no! A good leader knows when they’re serving out of love and passion and when they’re sputtering on obligation and guilt. Healthy boundaries keep your heart intact for the Lord to refill. Broken boundaries drain you out till there’s nothing left. Matthew 11:28-30 (MSG) “Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest….” Don’t ignore your limits. Limits are often God’s gift in disguise.

3. They are always looking to give more leadership away. 

The calling card of a good (soon to be great) leader is their relentless desire to give their leadership away. Good leaders know it’s not about them but those around them. Leaders lead teams, but good leaders make leaders. Share on X When I see a leader consistently training and challenging those around them, I know God is deeply involved. Human nature is to gain authority and influence, use it to our advantage and never let it go. Healthy leaders thrive on the collective power of those around them. They see the potential in others before they even see it in themselves. They use their influence to call those around them higher and push them to be more than they already are. They understand that they don’t have a job to do but a team to build. They understand Ephesians 4:12-13 (ESV) “to equip the saints for the work of ministry…”

What About You?

• Are you a healthy leader?
• Which trait are you succeeding at?
• Which trait is the most challenging for you?
• What are you going to do about it?

Spend some time this week looking for ways to be the healthiest leader you can be.

– Avery