WEEKLY WISDOM - WHY AM I STILL HERE?

Why: A question concerning the cause or reason for which something is done, achieved, etc.

This is a question that I don’t think we ask ourselves often enough. We will make decisions about leaving or staying in a particular position or organization based on our feelings or when something appears to be better. It seems we are always looking to the future instead of being present where we are to truly understand our purpose and impact on others. We should be asking this question every six to twelve months to stay on purpose.

One of the commitments I made to myself with any new position or joining an organization is I would give it at least two years. This would allow me to understand the vision and mission, experience the culture, observe how change is handled, develop relationships, and examine the organizational rhythms. Now of course if something drastic happens, this may be cause for a change or what I would consider time for some serious prayer and meditation.

Once we as leaders get to a decision point, we must ensure we are asking the right questions to make a more informed decision. Here are some questions to consider bringing more clarity to the question “Why am I still here?”.

*Is my assignment over and if so, what confirmation signs have God revealed to me?

*Is the organization in a better position from when I started because of my contribution?

*Have I equipped someone who can succeed me?

*Have there been recommendations or suggestions from trusted sources regarding additional opportunities leading me in another direction?

*Have I become proficient and mature in the essential competencies of my position?

*What is motivating my decision to make a change: growth, opportunity, confusion, frustration, or the surface allurement of something appearing more attractive?

These are just a few of the questions to ponder that can aid in bringing clarity to your decision.

I have heard the phrase that if you want to be successful and make an impact, do something hard with people you love. That can be a difficult phrase to live up when often our minds and hearts can be more selfish than selfless. The selfish narrative is that it is always about "me" and the world revolves around "me" and "my" happiness. This also becomes hard because you may not like what’s going on in your organization while at the same time you don’t like change so therefore you do not contribute with solutions that could be valuable to many of your employees, colleagues, and/or the culture. A way of escape then becomes your motivation.

The selfless narrative in which you examine your state of being in your profession must be founded on servant leadership with an emphasis on servant; giving instead of getting; and operating in your purpose.

Looking through your servant leadership narrative along with regularly reviewing the insightful questions above will either inspire you to remain diligent in your current role or help you to prepare for your next calling.

Proverbs 3:5-8 does a great job of bringing clarity to these questions. Remember also that whatever you do, do it unto the Lord. 

(EQUIPPING)

Exercise Your Power this week

1. Discuss with a trusted colleague what keeps you in your current role and how you will be challenging yourself over the coming months.

2. Ask 2-3 colleagues at your level or above what keeps them in their current role or profession.

3. Take steps to plan your successor strategy just in case you are presented with another opportunity.