When accomplishing anything of significance, you will offend people and make enemies.
ADAGE
Sledgehammers Work
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RESPONSE
When accomplishing anything of significance, you will offend people and make enemies. This especially applies to dysfunctional organizations with entrenched interests. You are not a missionary seeking converts. Make sure you understand why things are the way they are before you start changing them. Then move swiftly and decisively. Concentrations of power and authority in particular will vigorously resist attempts at change. Organizations with evenly distributed power and authority are the most open to change. Before starting a program of change, distribute additional authority and responsibility to those most likely to support change. Never assume that you will convert everyone to your agenda or meet everyone’s expectations. Leadership is hard, and Christian leadership is harder because it must consider the weak and vulnerable in addition to what is best for the boss. You cannot be a welfare agency, but you don’t have to run roughshod over others. Consider everyone’s interests before making significant changes that impact many lives.
SCRIPTURE
Philippians 2:3-4 Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.
QUESTIONS
How do the Scripture(s) apply to the business adage?
This adage suggests that you’re are not a missionary seeking converts. Do you agree?
What do you do with those who do not support change?
Is converting your secular enterprise to a faith-driven enterprise the ultimate change? How would your business look different?
“Sledgehammer” is a metaphor, but should you confront change head-on and directly? Or should you try to soften the blow—assuming you can ever actually soften it. If so, how would you do this?
DOWNLOAD
Download the free PDF worksheet for this adage, print it, and use it in your meeting, conference, or group.
