... another reason this has taken so long to write (i could blame a stinkin crazy few weeks, or being sick,or a broken computer...all of which are true, but...) , the main reason is ... I had a hard time processing this chapter. as in... It took a while for the truth spoken here to break through the barriers of my heart. This chapter struck a nerve. I'm convinced as people read this book,they will identify with one or more chapters. This was my chapter. I stopped reading the book at this chapter and just read this chapter over & over... mainly to be able to clearly portray this to those who read this. And to let the truth penetrate and wash me clean. That said...Here goes.
Sometimes, as a leader, admitting your confidence wavers occasionally , or that something came up that you need help with or don't know how to handle may seem like it would make you a inferior leader, or weak... but let's remember the chipped mug,shall we?And that in our weakness,His strength shines through.
As Jenni so graciously pointed out, everyone fights insecurity sometimes...but it becomes clout compromising when it becomes perpetual.
How does insecurity affect out Clout? It "blinds us to our potential because we can't see beyond our weaknesses." Insecurity leads to being influenced rather than influencing, and portrays you wrongly- as aloof & insensitive, prideful, or with a false air of confidence... and controlling and inflexible. Insecure Leaders blame others, fault find with everyone else,and resist feedback...for starters.
How do we confront it?
Prayerfully identify where your insecurities are... and Let the creator remind you how loved you are... and then help others realize the same!
OK...so, approximately half way through our Clout Journey... and I've gotta say....If the amazingness I've tried to portray doesn't whet your appetite, let me share something even *MORE* personal...
Some of these chapters broke my heart... not because Jenni didn't do awesome... but because I realized I'd been misjudging people that have been leaders in my life... thinking and even commenting on how stuck up and controlling they seemed,for instance (and how that control and pride hurt ME)...when in reality, I should have been lifting them up,and praying for them,and seeking the root...insecurity... this is just one issue...This book will not only help you check your self as a leader,but as a leader's support...which,we all are. :-) Much Love.
Amber, thank you for sharing how you're processing this book. I love the journey you're taking and inviting us to learn from with you!
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