The University of Florida produced this article on the transformational leadership model. The article presents an overview of this model and an assessment of its strengths and weaknesses. The authors state that this model of leadership is defined by transforming the followers such that they themselves desire to be led in the right direction. Leaders have four characteristics: being good role models, motivation towards a vision, a critical mind, and a sense of encouragement. The benefits of this model are its proven effectiveness and the focus on followers’ needs. Its weaknesses are its broad focus, the view of leadership as inherent instead of learned, and the potential for abuse of power. With this model of leadership, one will be able to empower others, be a good role model, listen to different views, instill vision, facilitate change, and enable others to contribute to the vision.
This article is beneficial in that it presents both the strengths and weaknesses of transformational leadership. Thus, one may well conclude that the article is free from bias. It does seem that this model of leadership would be useful within a church context. The ability to provide a vision and be a role model to parishioners are both laudable traits to find in a pastor. As for the weaknesses, I would argue that the potential for abuse is characteristic of any form of leadership, where someone exercises power and authority over others. The view, however, that qualities are inherent instead of learned may appear stifling of God’s ability to grow people into the leaders he desires.
Got this one;)
ReplyDeleteLiberati
While the original bullet points in this article reflect a secular form of leadership, I believe the following modifications can quickly turn these principles into pastoral leadership principles.
ReplyDelete• Idealized influence describes leaders who are exemplary role models for their congregation. Church Leaders with idealized influence can be trusted and respected by their congregation to make good decisions for the church.
• Inspirational motivation describes leaders who motivate their congregation to commit to the vision of the church. Church leaders with inspirational motivation encourage team spirit to reach goals of increased impact and growth for the Kingdom of God.
• Intellectual Stimulation describes leaders who encourage spiritual growth through challenging the normal beliefs or views of the world through the preaching and teaching of the Word of God. Church leaders with intellectual stimulation promote critical thinking and problem solving which leads to conviction by the Holy Spirit in order to make the church better.
• Individual consideration describes leaders who act as coaches and advisors to the congregation. Church leaders with individual consideration encourage their congregation to reach the goals that God has set out for them by helping them identify and utilize their spiritual gifts. This helps both the congregation and the church.