Hiding in an Office

The most dangerous position from which to lead a church, business or organization is from an office.

In terms of the lowest rate of return of any real estate in the organization, the office is by far the winner. An office becomes a deadly organizational trap as leaders experience upward mobility within the organization. A more prominent position brings with it a more private and comfortable space. Keyword being "space."

An office puts an arbitrary space between the leader and the people of action. An office is typically a hiding place far away from the hassles, moans and whining of those on the front-lines of organizational purpose. Leaders build a cocoon of retreat in which they can "think" strategically or plan "purposefully" yet they are so detached from the real action that their thinking and planning are unrealistic and out of touch.

Leaders must keep themselves in the midst of the daily flow of organizational activities. They cannot hide. They cannot retreat. They must see time spent in an office as a detached existence. Conversations with those serving and those being served must take place away from the sterile, paradigm numbing walls of an office.

If your church seems to be out of step with your leadership, honestly assess the time you spend locked in your room. It is time to come out and engage.