Episode 079:
Becoming a Wholehearted Leader – Three Alternative Leadership Responses
August 6, 2019
Brawls, Mistakes, and Armor
If you’re thinking, I’m not planning on getting into any fights today, neither are we. But if you pay attention to the world around you there are often leadership lessons that emerge. Such was the case with a baseball game, a book, and daily life.
So, what do a brawl at a baseball game, denying our mistakes, and armor have to do with leadership?
We’re glad you asked.
In Episode 079 of LeaderCast, Tim and Sara explore how ministry leaders, pastors, and ordinary people can become wholehearted, influential leaders.
When it comes to professional sports, church leadership, and even daily life, most of us have a “go-to” leadership response. And sometimes that response is not kind, loving, let alone Christian. But it can be.
An Invitation to Wholehearted Leadership
Our invitation to you is simple: become a wholehearted leader.
Note: we didn’t say it was easy. But, wholehearted leadership is fairly simple to understand. Wholehearted leadership is about cultivating the courage, compassion, and connection to integrate our thinking, feeling, and behavior.
It’s about putting down what Brené Brown calls armor. Then, we can pick up all of the pieces of what makes us who we are – the good, bad, and ugly – as well as the messy, complex and admirable.
If you’re thinking leadership is challenging. We’re right there with you. There’s nothing about leading others that is predictable. That’s why we’re inviting you to practice leading from an integrated heart, soul, mind, and strength.
Armor? We’re Not Knights!
Before we dive into this episode, what exactly do we mean by armor? While you and I may not have metal suits and shields we literally carry around each day. Every one of us has metaphorical armor – the behaviors we use to protect ourselves from being and leading from a place of vulnerability in leadership.
As you listen, you’ll have the opportunity to explore three common types of armored leadership identified by research¹ and ask yourself if this is a behavior you ever use. Trust us, if your honest, the answer is yes.
- Victor or Viking, Crush or Be Crushed
- Weaponizing Fear
- Zigzagging or Avoiding
Then, take the time to explore the daring leadership response in the context of the local church and the baseball diamond.
Next Steps
It’s summer, so grab a tall glass of ice tea and sit out on the back porch. Or put on a pair of tennis shoes and head out on a walk. We’ll take this leadership journey with you so you can consider how you can become a wholehearted leader.
Whether you’re a baseball fan or church leader, a manager at a business or a parent, partner, or friend, there’s something in this episode for you.
Dare to Lead Workshop
This fall, we’ll be hosting workshops to help you learn the skills we’re exploring in the podcast. Register your interest below.
If you want to learn the skills you need to lead with courage, complete this simple form and let us know you’re interested in Dare to Lead. we’ll keep you updated about opportunities for you to become a brave leader and create courageous cultures.
Mentioned in the Episode
2. Mistakes Were Made but Not By Me
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