How to Lead and Still Have a Life
by Dale Burke
Published by Harvest House
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Reviewed by Bob Pike CSP, CPAE-Speakers Hall of Fame
One of the biggest challenges that those in ministry have always faced is workaholism disguised as spirituality. Spirituality is measured (falsely) by the number of meetings that you attend, the number of committees you serve, the number of people you visit and counsel, etc. etc.
Over time, this paradigm, if followed by either full-time staff or an active volunteer, means that one's personal and family life are sacrificed. Burke's viewpoint is that not only is this not Biblical--it is not necessary. As followers of Christ we can be more effective by doing less, not more.
But this problem doesn't just impact those in ministry. It also impacts those in other areas of work who measure their self worth on performance--and who believe that more and more is required at the sacrifice of one's personal life. They also believe that self-worth is measured by performance and the opinion of others.
Burke challenges the reader to develop the disciplines that Jesus practiced throughout his ministry including:
Spirituality -- staying close to the Father and knowing His mind
Humility -- the key to being a serving leader, rather than a self-serving leader
Imagination -- the power to see God's vision
Mobilization -- the art of getting things done through others
Innovation -- the power of creativity
This book is a must for any follower of Jesus who understands that life role leadership is just as critical as organizational leadership--and that God does not want nor require that one be sacrificed for the other.
Armchair Interviews says: Unique viewpoint of work and leadership.