There are some things in leadership I could honestly say I despise.
The ways people behave. The things they do. I should note—not the people involved in them, but the actions.
And I have probably been guilty of some of these also in my career. But I hate when I did them as well.
Perhaps you have your own list, but this is mine.
Here are 10 things that drive me crazy in leadership:
1. Responsibility without authority – If you ask someone to lead something—let them lead. Don't make them jump through hoops, constantly come back to you for approval or second-guess everything they do.
2. Small-mindedness – I like big dreams and those who dream them. I've never once out-dreamed God. Neither have you.
3. Naysayers – There is always someone who says it can't be done, it hasn't been done this way before, or no one will support your idea. Listen to wisdom, even constructive criticism, but don't fall for the person who has never met a good idea in their life.
4. Laziness – Not only is it a sin, but if it is allowed to fester, it can be contagious or disruptive to an organization. I believe in protecting my Sabbath. I have learned and teach on the need to protect our soul—to rest—but work is work. And there is much work to be done.
5. Settling – Even if it involves conflict, I want to push for best over mediocre. Settling eventually means no one wins and everything stalls.
6. Popularity seeking – Leaders who say what they think people want to hear in order to be liked—it drives me nuts. (I'm not even sure these types are technically leaders.)
7. Power hunger – Leaders who are easily threatened by others or who always try to control others limit people and organizations.
8. Caution out of fear – Some leaders refuse to take risk. They take the safe route every time—especially when pressure rises against them. Personally, I prefer a bold faith every time.
9. Bully management – Some leaders get their way from force. They beat people into submission, are never satisfied or badger people to perform. This has always seemed like cowardly leadership to me.
10. Passion squelchers – I've known leaders who never liked a new idea—unless it was theirs. They prefer to say no to people more than yes. It drives me crazy. Leaders should energize others to realize their dreams, not stifle them.
What are some things you despise in leadership? 
Ron Edmondson is the lead pastor at Immanuel Baptist Church in Lexington, Kentucky. For the original article, visit ronedmondson.com.
Get Spirit-filled content delivered right to your inbox! Click here to subscribe to our newsletter.
Dr. Mark Rutland's
National Institute of Christian Leadership (NICL)
The NICL is one of the top leadership training programs in the U.S. taught by Dr. Mark Rutland. If you're the type of leader that likes to have total control over every aspect of your ministry and your future success, the NICL is right for you!
FREE NICL MINI-COURSE - Enroll for 3-hours of training from Dr. Rutland's full leadership course. Experience the NICL and decide if this training is right for you and your team.
Do you feel stuck? Do you feel like you’re not growing? Do you need help from an expert in leadership? There is no other leadership training like the NICL. Gain the leadership skills and confidence you need to lead your church, business or ministry. Get ready to accomplish all of your God-given dreams. CLICK HERE for NICL training dates and details.The NICL Online is an option for any leader with time or schedule constraints. It's also for leaders who want to expedite their training to receive advanced standing for Master Level credit hours. Work through Dr. Rutland's full training from the comfort of your home or ministry at your pace. Learn more about NICL Online. Learn more about NICL Online.
