Cultivating Competence is The Path to Leadership Growth
Competence is not just a buzzword; it’s a vital part of effective leadership. It encompasses what you do, the role you fill, and the gifts you use.
Even the most competent leaders must continually nurture their talents, skills, and desires. This ongoing growth is essential for their personal development and the success of the teams they lead.
At the core of this growth is the understanding that competence builds trust. And trust fosters credibility, and credibility enhances influence—all critical factors for effective leadership.
Conversely, few people will follow an incompetent leader for very long, which means cultivating your competence is pivotal, not just for self-improvement, but also for fulfilling the higher purpose of your leadership in the community and beyond.
As leaders, it is our responsibility to facilitate growth in others, but that journey begins with you. Each person must take ownership of their development.
Ask yourself: What areas of my life do I wish to become more competent in?
This could range from personal relationships and financial management to specific roles in your workplace or ministry.
It’s essential to approach this growth with the right intentions. Whether your goal is a promotion at work or taking on more significant leadership within your ministry, remember that personal development is a continuous journey.
By cultivating your competencies, you prepare yourself for the opportunities that God may lay before you.
As Proverbs 16:9 reminds us, “Man makes his plans, but God ordains the steps.”
Growth in competence creates future readiness.
Before anyone achieves “overnight success,” there’s often a long period of preparation.
Just look at famous athletes like Mo Farah and David Beckham, whose remarkable achievements were the result of relentless practice and an unwavering commitment to excellence.
It is said that Beckham practiced thousands of free kicks long before he became a household name. Most people, however, do not maintain this level of diligence.
how can you cultivate a mindset that embraces growth?
Consider these steps:
Raise Your Leadership Lid: What does it take to improve by just one point on your scale of competence? Look to increase your capacity and embrace growth.
Self-Examination: Take a hard look at how you spend your time. Lazy habits prevent leadership growth, while effective use of surplus time can elevate you from mediocrity to excellence.
Spiritual Discipline: Dedicate time for prayer and reflection, seeking guidance on how to apply what you are learning.
Read Widely: Identify books and resources that contribute to your growth. Remember, a leader's reading reflects their inner aspirations.
Study the Word of God: Engage deeply with scripture—both in its teachings and personal application.
Create Thinking Space: Disconnect from distractions, including social media, to think and reflect on your journey.
Embrace Curiosity: Ask questions about your work and the world around you; this curiosity fosters learning and growth.
Great leaders are committed to making growth a habit. It prepares you for your future self and the purpose God has for you. Don’t wait until you get there. Don’t wait for the right moment to begin. Start now. Be intentional in your pursuit of leadership competence, taking it one step at a time.
Your journey toward cultivating competence starts today, paving the way for a brighter future in your leadership role.
