One of the strategic mistakes leaders make today is to distance themselves from the people they are supposed to lead.
It is easy to become so busy with responsibilities, meetings, goals, and deadlines that we forget to truly live close to people. We begin making decisions without understanding their world. We speak about people, but not necessarily with them.
A leader lives with people to know their problems.
A leader lives with God in order to solve them.
When Jesus ministered to people, He did not remain at a distance. He moved among them. He listened. He noticed. He stopped for those who were easily overlooked. He knew people’s hearts because He was willing to live close to them.
The invitation from Jesus is simple:
“Closer to Me and closer to others!”
Leadership is not only about vision, strategy, and direction. It is also about presence. It is about being available. Taking a genuine interest. Knowing people’s stories and taking their challenges seriously.
Live with one ear on God’s heart and the other ear on the ground of your workplace.
Care about people. Take an interest in them. Listen to their challenges, disappointments, and problems. Celebrate their victories with them. Be aware of what is happening in their lives.
You cannot lead people effectively when you do not truly know them.
Know your people.
Live close to them.
And stay close to God.
Written by Johan Smith