How’s your Attitude?

People often ask me what it’s like leading the women’s ministry in a mega church.

They want to know the challenges I face and the strategies I use.

I’m still trying to figure out strategy, but when it comes to challenges, the truth is that whether I’m leading the women at my church or running a busy ER, one of the most important lessons I have learned is in understanding the people that I lead.

You can be volunteering in a church or clocking in to your every day job, but if you’ll stop long enough and consider, you will find that when it comes to your attitude on the job, you will likely fall into one of these 4 categories.

1. I’ll do it but don’t ask for more. You know this joe. He shows up on time. He does exactly what he’s told. He’s above average. He’s reliable. But that’s about all you can say for him. And there may be nothing wrong with that. He’s getting paid for the job, and he will give you your money’s worth. The problem is that there’s nothing memorable about him either. The best thing you can do as a leader is to tell him exactly what you need him to do, because he’ll do it – and only that.

2. I refuse it and don’t make me. The word rebellious comes to mind for this attitude. This gal is honestly blunt. She knows what she’s willing to do, and don’t you dare ask her a second time. Nothing, I mean nothing, will change this girl’s mind. I gotta admit that I have a certain appreciation for this kind of honesty. It saves me a lot of time as a leader not to waste my time convincing this gal to help me out. So thanks for the brutal honesty!

3. I deserve it and you better believe it. I know you know who I’m talking about. This person is entitled and self-centered, and frankly I’ll take the first and second attitude over this one. This guy is hard to lead but will never leave. He’s in it for the long haul and he reminds you of it every time you sneeze. As a leader, you’re never gonna be able to thank him enough, and you’re never gonna please him enough. Give yourself a break when leading this guy and start praying for the grace to deal with him!

4. I’ll do anything and be thankful for it. There is nothing that gives a leader greater joy than to lead someone with this kind of attitude. Fortunately most people I lead fall into this category. They will do whatever they’re asked and go the extra mile without being asked. As a leader I never tire of looking for ways to bless this worker, and the funny thing is that anything I do to affirm this person is never expected and always appreciated.

As I think about my attitude, I have to confess that I’ve had seasons in each of the categories I’ve listed. But when it comes to serving Jesus Christ, my heart’s desire is to stay in the fourth category: willing and thankful.

What about you? Which category do you fall into?

Related posts: