The Anchors of [uncommon] Leadership

Any substantive project, building, relationship, or endeavor has at its base, a solid foundation. While the [uncommon] leader exhibits many important qualities of leadership, there are but a few that provide the underpinnings; the base off which the others rest. Like the brand-name stores in the mall, we could call these, “[uncommon] Leadership anchors.” “Anchors” not only support work at hand, but also encourage the ongoing growth and development of additional leadership traits.

In working alongside leaders for years, I see these “anchors” a consistent part of the [uncommon] leader’s “repertoire:"

• [uncommon] Vision
• [uncommon] Clarity
• [uncommon] Resolve
• [uncommon] Faith

It’s been said that “vision isn’t everything, but it’s the beginning of everything.” After resolving whether or not we have the heart for that to which we have been called [29.07.09 blog], [uncommon] Vision has to be the first “Anchor” addressed.

For years, the question has been debated, “What is the difference between mission and vision?” We will deal with the question over the course of the journey, but for now, let’s accept Andy Stanley’s definition of vision, as outlined in his book, Visioneering; “Vision is a clear mental picture of what could be, fueled by the conviction that it should be.” Perhaps clear “future picture” is another good option. Taking it a step further, the [uncommon] leader communicates a clear future picture in a relevant manner to those who are following.

Vision is important to everyone; to you and to the people who follow you. We’ve all heard Proverbs 29:18; “Without vision, the people perish.” Eugene Peterson paraphrases that verse in The Message; “If people can't see what God is doing, they stumble all over themselves; But when they attend to what he reveals, they are most blessed.”

Did you see yourself in that verse? Look again. “If people can’t see…” Part of your role as an [uncommon] leader lies in helping others see what God is doing! Why? So that they will attend to what he reveals! The result? They will be most blessed!

Let’s be clear: No matter what your age and stage in life; no matter what your occupation; no matter how many, or few people you lead [or think you lead]; you can be an [uncommon] leader, carrying an [uncommon] Vision. Home school parent or Harvard prof; small business owner or Wall St CEO; church planter or mega-church pastor; missionary or person sharing their faith in the cul-de-sac; expectant mom or mother of seven…you have ALL been created for [uncommon] Leadership!

Do you want to be an [uncommon] leader and blessing to those who follow? Then help them see what God is doing. Clarify the [uncommon] Vision for which you and your organization have been created, communicate it with passion, and ask others to join you on the journey!