Traits of catalytic leaders
Adobe
In The Starfish and the Spider: The Unstoppable Power of Leadership Organizations,authors Ori Brafman and Rod Beckstrom highlight the value of what they call 'leaderless' organizations.
Although I don't endorse leaderless organizations per se, one chapter describes tools that successful non-leader leaders use to catalyze their respective organizations. I've listed below some of their insights from this unusual perspective.
Qualities they suggest would apply to any leader.
#1 Genuine interest in others
#2 Loose connections
They don't limit themselves to a few close friends but have many connections.
#3 Mapping
Catalysts think of who they know, who those people know, how they all relate to one another, and how they fit into a huge mental map.
#4 Desire to help others
#5 Passion
#6 Meet people where they are
There is a difference between passionate and pushy; catalysts rely less on persuasion and more on meeting people where they are.
#7 Emotional intelligence
#8 Trust
#9 Inspiration
Catalysts often inspire others to work toward a goal that often doesn't involve their own personal gain.
#10 Tolerance for ambiguity
They learn to be OK when they don't have concrete answers to big questions.
#11 Hands-Off approach
They are less apt to use command and control.
#12 Receding
After they accomplish what they intended, they get out of the way.
The authors also contrast CEOs to Catalysts.
CEOs vs Catalysts:
#1 The boss vs a peer
#2 Command-and-control vs trust
#3 Rational vs Emotionally intelligent
#4 Powerful vs Inspirational
#5 Directive vs Collaborative
#6 In the spotlight vs Behind the scenes
#7 Order vs Ambiguity
#8 Organizing vs Connecting
What do you think about leader-less organizations? Do you think leadership is either one or the other?
 | Charles Stone coaches and equips pastors and teams to effectively navigate the unique challenges ministry brings. By blending biblical principles with cutting-edge brain-based practices he helps them enhance their leadership abilities, elevate their preaching/ teaching skills, and prioritize self-care. A pastor for over 42 years, he has served as a lead pastor, associate pastor, and church planter. He published seven books, and over 300 of his articles have appeared on various Christian leadership websites. He holds four earned academic degrees, including a D.Min. and a Ph.D. Learn More » |
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