I have never run a marathon, and thanks to exercise induced asthma, I probably never will. However, I realize my whole life is a marathon, and I must purpose in my heart to finish well. As a leader of both a Christian counseling ministry and my Ignite home business, I have to keep my focus on working each at a steady, consistent pace, so that I can finish well. Being disqualified from the race is not an option. This may be easier said than done.
The research of Dr. J. Robert Clinton, professor of leadership at Fuller Theological Seminary, concluded that more than 70 percent of leaders fail to finish well. His research found that there are six common traits of those leaders who do not finish well. They are as follows:
1. They lose their learning posture by no longer listening and growing.
2. The attractiveness of the character dwindles.
3. They compromise their convictions.
4. They fail to leave behind significant contributions.
5. They lose awareness of their influence and destiny.
6. They lose their once vibrant relationship with God.
Some of these leaders quit; some plateau through complacency. Dr. Clinton states that, “a leader whose… skills outstrip his character formation will eventually falter.” People intuitively respond to character and desire leaders who demonstrate honesty, integrity, and competency. Leaders who are both inspirational and visionary will never lack for followers.*
Temptation to compromise in business comes in many forms. Whether it is to overstate the merits of the business to manipulate clients or customers or to compromise the accounting process, honesty and integrity must be maintained. Any slight deviation through compromise will eventually direct a leader and their business way off course and possibly to disqualification and failure. Purpose to finish well by valuing honesty, integrity and those who follow you.
(*Quoted from The Ascent of a Leader by Bill Thrall, Bruce McNichol and Ken McElrath; Jossey-Bass; 1999; pg.14).
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