Leading below the red line

Mike Bonem March 21, 2020

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There is always a price to be paid in leadership. In stressful and uncertain times, when leaders need to step up more than ever, that price tends to be much higher. But just like a car engine, if you run above the red line for too long, damage will occur.

So how can you lead well in a chaotic time and stay below the red line? 

• Lean on wise advisers. Do you find yourself saying or thinking, “It all depends on me”? That’s a sure sign that you’re shouldering too much of the burden on your own. 

If you’re in the first chair, the buck may ultimately stop on your desk, but that doesn’t mean you have to operate solo. In turbulent times, it is especially important to seek counsel from others. 

• Vent to trusted friends. Beyond wise advisers, leaders in high stress seasons often need to talk with people outside their contexts. As the pressure mounts, conversations with a counselor, coach or trusted friend can help you reduce stress, regain perspective and recharge for what’s ahead. 

Think of these friends as a resource for lowering your leadership RPMs below the red line.

• Commit to physical wellness. We think of stress primarily in emotional terms, but it has a significant physical component as well. Rather than getting less sleep because you’re so busy, make it a priority to get more sleep. 

The same is true for physical exercise—running, swimming, biking, etc. If you haven't had an exercise regimen, at least take daily walks. It's amazing how much your stress will be lowered and your mind recharged with even 30 minutes of physical activity. 

• Elevate your spiritual disciplines. The greatest power for leading in chaos comes from above. It is tempting to spend less time reading Scripture, praying or engaging in spiritual disciplines when there are so many demands on our time. 

These are the practices that can provide the wisdom, perspective, and peace that we desperately need. Remember the words of Martin Luther: “I have so much to do that I must spend the first three hours in prayer.”

I doubt that this article has said anything you don’t already know, but maybe it’s reminded you of something you need to do. In closing, I will share the verse that I keep reflecting on right now: 

“Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God” (Psalm 42:5). 

Photo source: istock 

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Mike Bonem is an author, consultant, speaker, church leader, businessperson, husband and father. He has an MBA from Harvard Business School and a breadth of experience in ministry and business, including 11 years as an executive pastor, consulting with Fortune 100 companies, and leading a start-up business. This article was first published on MikeBonem.com. Used with permission. Learn More »

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