Disengaged leaders refuse to take action. In other words, they’re indecisive. Thus, disengaged leaders produce decay in an organization.
Disengaged Leaders
Why do some leaders disengage? Or, why do they become indecisive? Thus, what’s the root cause?
First, for some, it’s a fear of making a mistake. Hence, the constant seeking for more data. As a result, constant delay and risk avoidance.
Second, for others, there’s an unwillingness to take responsibility because of past run-ins with superiors. Thus, they’re always asking for permission and deferring to others up the chain of command.
Third, some are disengaged because they’re on auto-pilot as they coast toward retirement. Actually, they’re retired in place! Unfortunately, they haven’t been pushed out yet!
Thus, if you’ve spent any time in a large organization you have seen examples of each of these. And more!
So then, you know that person; they’re on cruise control while needs go unmet around them.
Traits of the Disengaged
As it turns out, in Proverbs, there are a number of verses that address those who are lazy, disengaged, and indecisive. In fact, they’re:
1). Unmotivated to grow professionally, Proverbs 26.15 (repeated in 19.24) and Proverbs 21.25-26
2). Excuse makers, Proverbs 20.4, 22.13, and 26.13, because everything is someone else’s fault!
3). Conceited, but without reason to be, Proverbs 26.16
4). Greedy, because they’re self-consumed, Proverbs 21.26
5). Poor stewards of resources, Proverbs 24.31 and Ecclesiastes 10.18.
Root Cause
Why? Well, root cause is a bad character, Proverbs 24.30 combined with a poor work ethic, Proverbs 10.26.
However, the issue isn’t a lack of capability because bad character and a poor work ethic point elsewhere.
Actually, the issue is disuse of the talent the disengaged leader has. Ultimately, they will be held accountable. For example, see Matthew 25.24-30.
In this sense, dormant talents are like use-or-lose annual leave hours because they don’t roll over to the next calendar year.
Remember, use what you’ve already got or lose it!
Above all, the outcome for this type of leadership is poverty, or organizational decay. For examples, see the following verses, all from Proverbs: 6.9-11, 19.15, 26.14 (repeated in 20.13), and 24.33-34.
Moreover, the multiple references to sleep in the prior list suggests they are, literally, asleep at the switch as a leader.
Hence, disengaged leaders produce decay in an organization.
Traits of the Engaged
In contrast, what’s an engaged leader look like? Well, they’re:
1). Wise, Proverbs 6.6
2). Self-starters, Proverbs 6.7
3). Foresighted, they plan ahead Proverbs 6.8
4). Diligent, Proverbs 13.4, hence persistent, dependable, and consistent in work habits, and
5). Goal-focused, giving them clear direction in their career, Proverbs 15.19.
So, I trust you agree that this list of five is more desirable than the prior list of five!
Leadership Insight
Ok, the disengaged trait list is really ugly. Whereas, the engaged leader trait list is really desirable.
As such, how do I build those traits of an engaged leader?
Actually, it’s a simply learning/decision process described in Proverbs 6.6 and Proverbs 24.32. In both cases, the observer is learning from the disengagement of others.
Also, note that in both cases, Proverbs 6.10-11 and 24.33-34, the conclusion is exactly the same. Basically, small amounts of neglect, over time, produce poverty or decay.
Look, regardless of the measure used, it doesn’t take much neglect to bring serious decay.
Conversely, small amounts of appropriate effort can compound over time. As a result, it produces dramatic results in my life.
For some examples of small things that are impactful, see these verses in Proverbs: 30.24-28. Also, read Proverbs 15.16 and Proverbs 16.8.
A Decision Process
Now, the three-step decision process is as follows. First, careful observation. And then, absorbing or taking to heart. Finally, deciding by forming a conclusion.
Most plainly, the process involves listening, framing, and acting. Thus, something any leader can do.
What to Observe
Given the number of possible options, where should an engaged leader focus their learning?
Thankfully, the Proverbs offer suggestions to improve the impact of a leader:
First, seek wise counsel, Proverbs 1.5.
Second, be aware of natural cycles around you, Proverbs 6.6.
Third, learn from the mistakes of others, Proverbs 24.30.
Fourth, don’t be arrogant, Proverbs 3.34.
Fifth, build your spiritual discernment, Proverbs 2.4-6.
In short, an engaged leader makes good use of his or her leadership team. Also, he/she anticipates normal cycles for their given industry. And, that leader is reflective so they multiply their growth.
Basically, impactful leadership involves using the talents you have. And, developing new leadership capabilities.
Unfortunately, disengaged leaders pursue none of these growth activities. Therefore, don’t be that leader because disengaged leaders produce decay in an organization!
Thanks for visiting. If you have any questions or comments, please contact me: larrydaleyoung@gmail.com
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