5 Critical Habits of the Heart

What habits do we need to keep from being derailed as a leader?

I just finished Tim Irwin’s book Derailed. Earlier I posted the red flags that Irwin says to look out for in your own life. This time I want to discuss the habits of the heart Irwin says we need to develop as leaders. For more info check out Derailed Leader.

Habits are essentially patterns of behavior that, once established, are prone to continue. -Irwin

1. The Habit of Openness - Constantly willing and open to receive feedback from those around us. Especially if it’s contradictory to how we perceive ourselves.
2. The Habit of Self/Other Awareness - Becoming a student of ourselves. Creating an accurate and balanced view of who we are and what our capabilities and limitations are. Also glean insights from the reactions of others.
3. The Habit of Listening to Early Warnings Systems – Develop an early warning system (key relationships, performance feedback) and pay attention to your or others signals.
4. The Habit of Accountability – “No man is an Island.” Put yourself in a position to be known and held accountable by key people.
5. The Habit of Resiliency – It’s about getting up and keeping going. Those who are resilient and recover from their experiences grow into stronger and more confident leaders and people.

What habit to you need growth in for 2010? What habit is the hardest for you in the context of ministry?

Photo Courtesy of Greg

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