Finding Your Leadership Style

January 1, 1998 Christianity Today published an article written by Bill Hybels, Senior Pastor, Willow Creek Community Church, discussing ten different ways to lead God's people. The leadership styles are visionary, directional, strategic, managing, motivational, shepherding, team-building, entrepreneurial, re-engineering and bridge-building. There are so many different styles of leadership within the church. The most interesting style was the entrepreneurial leader. This is described as leaders who possess vision, boundless energy, and a risk-taking spirit. These are the type of leaders that love being told it cannot be done. However, once the project requires ongoing leadership, or things get complex and require constant discussions about policies, systems, controls and databases, these leaders lose energy, lose their focus and also their confidence. However, they may be ready to start another project. I would have called this type of leader not dependable because they did not complete the mission. However, after reading this article, I view this in a completely different light. It gives new meaning to understanding the gifts and leadership styles that God gives each of us. Some plant, some water, but God gives the increase. The article is an encouragement to all of those called by God to lead. Bill Hybels reminds us in this article, "God gave each of us our gift mix for a reason . . . When leaders adopt someone else's style, they miss the unique opportunities God has given them. Whatever your style, recognize it, celebrate it, and step up to the plate and lead."