In tough times all great leaders stretch in the direction of a challenge. On the other hand, followers shrink from or in the opposite direction of a challenge. Realize this truth, you are not made in a crisis, you are revealed by it. When squeezed oranges and lemons reveal their nature. Human beings when squeezed by the pressures of our day reveal what is on the inside – negative or positive.
This is going to be a 2-part Podcast with this one being the second. We will look at principles that I have learned from a variety of authors, speakers and teachers. In full disclosure, I must admit my profound privilege to be a founding member of the John Maxwell Company. My learning has been accelerated by a factor of 10x.
Let’s dive into Part 2.
Learn From Bad Experiences – Peter Drucker is credited with saying a crisis must never be experienced for the second time. Famous Chef Wolfgang Puck stated that he learned more from the one restaurant that failed than from all the ones that did. It has been said that experience is the best teacher. I would modify that by saying that evaluated experience is the best teacher.
Value Teamwork – It is true in any endeavor that as the challenge escalates, the need for Teamwork elevates in relation to the challenge. The true measure of a successful; leader is getting people to work hard together. Team leaders believe they do not have all the answers, they believe they do not need to make all the decisions. They do believe they cannot succeed without the combined contributions of all other team members.
Give Hope – It has been said the first and last task of a leader is to keep hope alive – the hope that we will be able to find our way through difficult days. Hope is the foundation of change! Understand the difference between Optimism and Hope. Optimism is a passive belief that things will get better. Hope is an active belief that together we can make things better.
Make It Happen – Modern leaders are measured by the size of the problem they are willing to tackle. Get out of the comfort zone of familiarity and dare to step into the challenge zone of doing something you have never attempted. Risk is required! Charles Parnell stated that far too many people are having what is called “near-life experiences.” They always hedge the bet and never dare anything of worth.
Watch Their Attitude – It is amazing to me after 40+ years in leadership how people still do not realize that attitude is a choice. You cannot always stop what happens to you, but you can make a choice of what happens in you. Attitude isn’t everything, it’s just the main thing that determines how we are going to handle problems. Your attitude is what will separate you as a successful leader from being an unsuccessful leader.
As a final word, TRUST GOD! All I have seen teaches me to trust the Creator for all I have not seen!
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Garry Brackett brings his experience as an executive coach and non-profit leadership specialist to every conversation on the Shepherds Advantage Leadership Podcast. This isn't about abstract theory; it's a practical exploration of how leadership principles intersect with faith, culture, and the daily challenges of making a meaningful impact. Garry engages with a diverse range of guests-people who are actively shaping their communities and organizations-to uncover the real-world strategies and personal convictions that drive effective, compassionate leadership. You'll hear discussions that feel like a thoughtful mentorship session, covering topics from organizational health and personal resilience to the spiritual foundations that guide service-oriented work. This podcast serves as a resource for anyone, whether in ministry, non-profit, or broader community roles, who seeks to lead with purpose and integrity. Tune in for authentic stories and grounded advice that equips you to navigate the complex landscape of modern leadership with confidence and clarity.
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