Leadership Lessons: David
Early wins are a confidence builder. But, to be a success, avoid overconfidence that comes from early wins.
An Early-career Win
What better way to build influence than an early-career win?
For David, he fought a giant and won, First Samuel 17.50. The story is so well known that the phrase David-versus-Goliath pictures overcoming long odds.
So, what’s the danger after an early career win? Well, it’s easy to be over-confident, believing you’re invincible!
However, one early win doesn’t make a career. In fact, arrogance works against continuing success.
Therefore, avoid over-confidence. Ok, easy to say but hard to do when you’re young and successful.
Leadership Insight
Now, if you’re on the fast track by performing well, how do you maintain balance?
In David’s case he “behaved himself wisely”, First Samuel 18.5.
The Hebrew word sakal is often translated behave wisely. Thus, I choose how I act. Other words or phrases that translate sakal include: be wise, be instructed, have understanding, prosper, and have good success.
So, acting wisely is a factor in my long-term success.
In short, I choose to stay grounded. And, to not let early success produce arrogance. Or, to create a belief I’m invincible, which opens me to taking excessive risks.
Instead, continue to learn and grow, thus building influence and gaining respect.
Dealing with Envy
Now, if I perform well, and guard my character, what’s the next likely risk?
Unfortunately, the risk is envy and outright resistance from peers or superiors.
David dealt with that resistance, First Samuel 18.8-12.
What to do?
First, develop discernment so you don’t take things at face value.
Second, think on your feet and move quickly!
Once, David had to dodge a spear thrown at him, by his boss!
Third, behave yourself more wisely, First Samuel 18.14 and 18.30.
Fourth, stay humble, First Samuel 18.18.
Fifth, like David, operate with transparency, First Samuel 18.16.
In so doing, you build influence by becoming an impactful leader.
Choose not to be overwhelmed by threats, but instead, to find a way forward through intentional and thoughtful career choices.
Apply This Today!
Certainly, early career success is enjoyable. However, the responsibilities that accompany that success bring added challenges.
What’s more, new challenges demand additional skills if I expect to see continued progress.
As is sometimes the case, giant killing is a solo act.
Whereas, later responsibilities require social skills such as supervision, motivation, and discretion.
For a person of faith, higher-order leadership skills require spiritual sensitivity. See First Samuel 18.12, 18.14, and 18.28 for the phrase “… the Lord was with David”.
I was never a fast starter. So, help me out here. How have you kept your balance after an early win?
Thanks for visiting. Also, please contact me if you have comments: larrydaleyoung@gmail.com
And, I invite you to follow me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dale-young-38418110/
