I’ve watched people in organizations – in government, business, nonprofits, and, sadly, far too often in the church — some leaders (people) simply stay too long. Leader, leave before you have to leave.
Does that sound cruel for me to say? I certainly don’t mean it to. Yet, some leaders simply stay beyond their welcome. Beyond their usefulness. And beyond their ability to make an impact and leave a positive legacy.
At the same time, I’ve known some people – and some strong leaders – that left when thing were going really well. They could have stayed longer, but they wanted to transition out during a good season. That always seems to work better, in my observation.
So, I have some advice.
Leave before you have to leave.
- When you are tired of attempting to attain the vision – or have a competing vision
- If you can’t support the senior leadership – publicly or privately
- When you have no heart left to give the organization – and that’s okay to admit
- If you consistently struggle to stay motivated – if coming to “work” is a chore – everyday
Certainly, when you feel God is freeing you to move elsewhere.
Don’t be forced out because you’re too stubborn, scared, or have a false sense of loyalty. You’ll do more harm to your reputation, your attitude and the organization during the miserable days.
And it may be you need a rest – a sabbatical – some extended time away, but the point of this post is to encourage you to do the right thing – for you and the organization. Never stay for a paycheck, or a false sense of loyalty, or because you’re afraid to walk again by faith.
Leave before you have to.
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