Are you a leader? Chances are, you are. Even if you're not aware of it! You're leading people at some capacity. A paycheck does not qualify you as a leader or the responsibilities that go along with the title. For instance I Pastor a new church, "The Life Church". I have an awesome staff that at this time lead with no financial compensation. Does that change the way they lead of course not, or at least it shouldn't. If it does, well, that's another post for another day! We have a great team that lead well! So, dont worry this is not a subliminal message to them! LOL.  In leadership there are many realities. Over the next couple of weeks we'll be looking at a few.

Reality#1
As leaders we'll never take those that we are leading to a place we've never been! In the words of my three year old, NEVER, NEVER, NEVER, NEVER! John Maxwell calls this the Law Of The Lid. This law or reality is true in every area of the leaders life. As a leader I'm obligated to explore new territories expanding the framework of the possibilities of your organization. Chances are if your company, organization, or church has stopped growing it's simply because you as a leader has topped growing. Refuse to become the bottleneck in your place of leadership stunting it's growth! The life and future of your organization rest on your ability as it's leader to grow. A scary thought indeed, but very true. Theres no exceptions to this reality. Listed below are a few practical steps you can take in your leadership journey that will help assure the growth your organizations to take place in your life.

• Commit to growth by making it a top priority. Resolve now that you'll do whatever it takes within ethical bounds to grow. Reinvent yourself if need be!
• Set some clear growth goals. You need something to measure your growth.
• Devote a set amount of time each day solely to growth. In this time read books that stretch and stirr you. Find out what other successful leaders are reading and follow their reading trails.
• Study the habits of successful leaders. What are they doing that works?
• Ask a ton of questions from those that are in a place that you desire to be.
• Listen to blogs of successful leaders. Find a few that can mentor you via blog or web.
• Listen to and read leaders in different fields
• Surround yourself with the right people. If they are not sharpening you or pulling greatness out of you, limit your time with them. Maybe cut them off completely!
• Invite other leaders to speak into your life. Be careful not to invite to many voices. Two or three are sufficient. Avoid yes men. You need honest loving people in your life. Those that love you will be truthful.
• Take time off! Rest your brain and body. Doing this will assure you that you'll stay fresh.
• Take notes. You can learn something from anyone. Even if you learn what not to do.
• Exercise and eat good.
• Protect your time. You may need to reprioritize a few things. Get rid of the dead weight in your life. It may be time to trim the fat!
• Commit to put into action some of what you have learned.