Three Sentence Summary
The church is moving into uncharted territory, and it needs transformational leadership at the head of healthy, mission-oriented, adventure-minded teams. Leadership is about helping others see where you all are headed and inviting them on the adventure. In uncharted territory, ideals do not usually become reality and the leader must expect and survive sabotage, recommit to the mission, stay connected relationally and resist defaulting to what is comfortable.
Overall Impression
Tod has several points that I believe are important for leaders in both the church and business sector. Regardless of one’s area of work, time or culture, people will change, and leadership strategy must follow suit. Much of the great work from the book comes from his borrowing and application of ideas from others such as Ronald Heifetz, particularly about ideas of why people resist change and how to gain perspective.
Favorite Quotes
Leadership in the past meant coming up with new solutions. Today leadership is learning how to ask new questions we have been too scared, too busy or too proud to ask.
Bolsinger (p. 218)
People do not resist change, per se. People resist loss.
Bolsinger (p. 138)
Perspective comes from looking from the balcony and listening on the floor.
Bolsinger (p. 113)
Top Takeaways
- Be adventure-minded. Wise but playful in experimental solutions in an “abundance” culture that allows it.
- Expect sabotage and don’t take it personally. They dislike loss; not you (most of the time).
- Engage with those who disagree with you. Don’t avoid them.
Disclaimer
Please note: If you liked this review or my linked summary, I encourage you to purchase the book. This review is meant to be a supplement to the book and certainly not a substitute.
