A Follow up to Yesterday’s Post
In yesterday’s post I shared about my work with leaders. Today I want to Offer a brief follow up.
Many don’t understand this particular call on my life. I’ve dealt with my share of criticism around the fact. At first, it would bother me, but that soon subsided. I know everyone isn’t called to this work. It’s not easy work and there’s no real way to enjoy it unless you’re graced for it. It’s absolutely life-giving to me!
But even if you aren’t called to service and support in the same way I am, it doesn’t mean you’re unable to show support in other ways. Some basic things you can do that will make an immediate change are:
Saying “thank you” once in a while - sometimes we think people know they are appreciated, but hearing it goes a long way sometimes.
Thinking twice before making a request of your leader. Is this something I can do myself? Is their someone else that can help me? Is this something that requires my leader’s attention at this very moment? Is this the best time to bring this matter up?
Consider the time of day you reach out via phone, text or email. Set some boundaries for yourself, even if the leader has an open door/call/text policy. A non- emergency call in the late evening or wee hours of the morning or night are not warranted in most cases and, in truth are not appropriate. Let them rest or at least have a bit of quiet time. If you think about it, most pressing issues, at those hours, will not be any more or less pressing if they must wait a few hours longer.
Pay attention. Many times you can tell when a leader is stressed and has a lot on their plate. Even when they are pressing through. Is there something you can do that will help ease the load without imposing?
A kind deed… carry a bag, buy a cup of coffee. CashApp for a lunch or book.
I could go on with a list, but I think I’ve made my point. Look at and treat your leaders as you would like to be seen and treated…as humans… with needs, desires, dreams and aspirations that’s extend beyond their leadership role.
Maybe I will say more about this in a future post.
In the meantime? Are you a leader? Do you serve other leaders? What are some of your thoughts about this? I hope you will share in the comments!