Writers and filmmakers understand the power of a good edit. Leaders should take note.

Many film directors experience lamentations in the edit bay. It's difficult to cut beautifully shot scenes from a story. But a good editor knows the difference between a story and run-on photography.

For a writer, the delete key is a good friend, always at the ready to end a rant or erase words splattered across a screen for no apparent reason. Word count goals seem to be the wrong metric. Write the story and edit well. Then, tomorrow morning, edit again.

Leaders are burdened with sustaining the long-term viability of an organization. Sustainability doesn't always need to be accomplished by addition. "My cup runneth over" is not a good cheer at a staff meeting. Subtraction should precede addition. We need to remove some toys from the toy box to make room for new toys.

Many years ago I worked with a brilliant leader. I respected his reading habits but also dreaded the tidal wave that would flow after he completed his latest book. He loved shiny objects. Our organization became awash with shine over substance. We had too many new things to blend into our workflow. Work didn't flow. Work was dammed by addition without subtraction.

Effective leaders need good editing skills.

"Then Jesus, looking upon him, loved him and said to him, 'You lack one thing: Go your way, sell whatever you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. And come, take up the cross and follow Me'" (Mark 10:21).

Dr. Steve Greene is the publisher and executive vice president of the media group at Charisma Media and executive producer of the Charisma Podcast Network. His book, Love Leads: The Spiritual Connection Between Your Relationships and Productivity, is now available.

Leaders, Dr. Greene wants to help you understand the spiritual connection between relationships and productivity. Read his new blog, here.

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Dr. Steve Greene is now sharing stories, teachings, and conversations with guests who lead with love on Love Leads, a new podcast. Listen now.

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