Scaling Leadership with Biblical WisdomSample

Grind It Out

Scaling Leadership isn't for the weak or weary. What you can’t fully comprehend from reading books, listening to others, or earning an MBA is how much pain you'll have to endure to fulfill the leadership potential in you. Leaning into this reality and embracing the pain that comes with leadership is a priceless education that we need to recognize and appreciate. One of my favorite writers, James Clear, puts it this way:

“You are only as mentally tough as your life demands you to be. An easy life fashions a mind that can only handle ease. A challenging life builds a mind that can handle a challenge. Like a muscle that atrophies without use, mental strength fades unless it is tested. When life doesn’t challenge you, challenge yourself.” 

As I look back on my leadership journey, I am continually reminded how critical it has been to lean in and grind it out when the going gets tough. Yet, when the weight is heavy and the suffering is great, we want to throw in the towel and not lean in. We might want to get out, and not grind it out. I totally get it. I can personally think of many times I didn’t press in as much as I needed to and instead, tapped out too early. With hindsight, I can see those mistakes. I’m far from perfect but I can say that in the big opportunities when it counted most, my persistence, my perseverance, and the grace of God helped me succeed. 

What situations or circumstances are you currently walking through? Are you fighting through some challenging growth phases that are more frustrating than fulfilling? If the answer is yes, count yourself blessed. If you happen to be coasting a bit and aren’t really challenged to where you feel the pressure and friction, then maybe it’s time to change things up. Take on a new project, decide to write that book, learn a new language, get your master’s degree, or serve on a non-profit board. My guess is that you already have a next step that has come to your mind. 

Depending on the situation, grinding it out is going to look different for everyone. Be encouraged that the refinement, perseverance, and struggle that comes with grinding it out is priceless. Scaling your leadership requires the grind, and some Biblical wisdom is waiting for you in God’s Word. 

God, give me eyes to see how You're working these struggles for my good. Help me to not run from challenges but to run to You instead.