Preacher on the Run…

“In investigations, details matter”. This line caught me the first time I heard it. I love suspenseful, investigative-style movies and shows. Whether it is Reacher, Jack Ryan, Criminal Minds, Inception, and many more, I love plot twists and last-minute resolutions. There’s something about watching for all the details, observing otherwise unsuspecting bits of information to converge at the correct conclusion. Observation is vital in an investigation. Details matter.

Being curious and observant is helpful in so many areas of life. I have found it extremely useful in relating to my wife. Asking good questions and watching her body language gives me great insights into what she may need from me. The same is true with my children. When they have an unusual response to something, I can use observation to help me (and them) determine what is bothering them below the surface. Observation is a critical learning tool. And we should be willing to learn from any area of life.

Observation is one of the most important abilities leaders can have. A leader must always be alert, attentive, and watch his or her surroundings, culture, and relationships. This skill should be used to learn lessons from other organizations as well. This is the point in James Emery White’s article “3 Lessons from the Bankrupt of Belk”. His ability to take the demise of another organization and learn lessons for a completely different setting.

What did you think of White’s lessons we could learn? I found two of of his lessons resonating with leadership principles I value. One of this lessons I’m still processing and thinking through the ramifications if applied across the board. Regardless of how much you agreed or disagreed with White I’d love to hear observations you are seeing and what you are learning from those and how you are planning to apply those to your leadership context. As always be with the Lord’s people on the Lord’s day.

Until Next Time…