The Hero & His Bag Of Tricks

The "Hero" Boss

Did you ever notice how many people, when taking on the role of the new leader of an organization, sometimes try too hard to show they are the boss? They act as though they know better than the previous leader. They quickly implement programs and strategies that they used in their previous employment. They launch changes that make it look like they are creative, expert and visionary.  And, they exude confidence . . . sometimes far too much. The organization deeply wanted a "hero" and the new leader is not going to disappointment them, at least he or she hopes.

I have seen this happen so often, I have even titled it in my little mind, "The hero and his big bag of tricks."  When I see this, I want to shout out, "Stop acting like an expert!" and, "You are not as good as you think!"

The Reality

But I also quietly wonder, is this how I would act? Is this how others would see me? I continually need to remind myself, God is big, and I am small. Others are fallen, and so am I.  They will disappoint, and so will I. Without this and other reminders formed from a Christian worldview, I cannot help but to think I am a player. A big fish. A rock star. (Well that may be a bit of a stretch!)

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Jay Desko is the CEO of The Center Consulting Group and brings experience in the areas of organizational assessment, leadership coaching, decision-making, and strategic questioning. Jay’s degrees include an M.Ed. in Instructional Systems Design from Pennsylvania State University and a Ph.D. in Organizational Behavior and Leadership from The Union Institute.