Don’t Believe the Lies…

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Insecurity is difficult to see in ourselves and even more difficult to overcome. It is because insecurity lies deeply rooted within us. It is impossible for anyone to conquer their own insecurities. We as leaders have to realize that we are not alone in our journey and everyone struggles with insecurity.

Why do leaders struggle with insecurity?

Leadership is perceived as knowing all the answers.

No leader, experienced or inexperienced wants to look like a fool in public. The expectation to always have an answer ready leaves room for exaggeration or embellishment of  success, authority, earnings, etc. Our society tells us, “Leaders always have the answers.” This is a lie that needs confronting with truth. I know from personal experience in both myself and others, it adds pressure that doesn’t need to exist. There are already pressures with leading that at times are overwhelming. Why add pressure to a leader that can create paralysis or hesitation? It is completely respectable to not have the answer to every problem. Admitting that you don’t have all the answers shows wisdom, trustworthiness and humility. Don’t pretend to have all the answers; it will make you look like a fool.

How do we overcome our insecurities and not lose our effectiveness as leaders?

Be secure in knowing insecurities exist.

The insecurities we have are lies and they exist to make us forget where our identities and approval rest. If we find approval in our families, our jobs, our success, our talents and abilities we will become miserable and make everyone around us miserable a well. Our approval and identities must live in Christ. Our insecurities will only be resolved by admitting the inability to do it on our own and placing our identity in Christ.

One of my oldest son’s favorite verses from scripture is Philippians 4:6-7. When I hear him recite those verses to himself or his little brother, I’m encouraged that he is learning from an early age that when he feels anxious about something he can bring it to God in prayer. My prayer for myself, family, and fellow leaders is that we familiarize ourselves with theses verses and others alike.

To lead ourselves and others well, we have to find our identities and joy in Christ – not things that do not last.

Leaders, stop beating yourself up. God has called you to lead and lead well. Don’t allow your insecurity to isolate you from leading your organization effectively.

 

I have found encouragement in these verses from scripture when dealing with my own insecurities:

1 Peter 5:8-10 (I’m not the only one that struggles with insecurity.) 

Philippians 4:6-9 (Do your best to think about things that are true.)

Ephesians 6:10-14 (God has given us His word as a tool to fight against the lies of the devil.)

 

 

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