Anytime you dream big, lead hard, or have a great passion you will encounter the inevitable "doubter." As leaders, we don't like these people! We sometimes perceive them as threats, "stealer's of the vision" or someone not wanting to be "under authority." At times these concerns may be valid, but many times we just need to learn how to deal with the doubter. Just a couple of suggestions:
- DO NOT be defensive. If it is a God thing (& it is right?), then it's not your idea anyway so don't be defensive about it. God can take care of Himself.
- Listen with respect. Many times you can turn a doubter just by letting them feel that they have had an audience with you. First seek to understand, then to be understood.
- Sincerely thank them for their insight. Many times there are nuggets of truth, that you may have overlooked. And if you implement just a "tad" of their side, you will have won over an opponent.
- If the doubter is a person of influence then invest time and resources to coach and expose them to new ways of thinking. Let them see, hear and touch a similar vision. It works wonders, and has an exponential return!
- Don't think you have to give in. But do it with great humility and grace. Jesus said, "don't lord over the sheep."
- Finally, if the doubter can't be turned, and they feel compelled to continue to challenge you, then send them away in peace. Ask them to find a vision that fits them, and run with that one. You can't hold on to the leaven to long, or you will spoil the whole loaf.
ANY OTHER SUGGESTIONS?
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