Avoid the Status Quo

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new. 2 Corinthians 5:17

I dip into a leadership devotional every morning while my wife prepares coffee before our joint bible devotional. The following is from the renowned business speaker John Maxwell: ¹

The status quo is Latin for “the mess we’re in.” But leaders see beyond the mess. They have a vision for what could be and are never content with things as they are. To be leading, by definition, is to be in front, breaking new ground, conquering new worlds, and moving away from the status quo. This proactive and visionary approach sets leaders apart and empowers them to make a difference.

Leaders are not just those who lead but are willing to be different and take risks. A person who refuses to risk change fails to grow. A leader who loves the status quo soon becomes a follower. Raymond Smith of the Bell Atlantic Corporation once remarked, “Taking the safe road, doing your job, and not making any waves may not get you fired (right away, at least), but it sure won’t do much for your career or your company over the long haul. We’re not dumb. We know that administrators are easy to find and cheap to keep. However, leaders who are risk-takers are in very short supply. And the ones with vision are pure gold. As a leader, you are not just a follower but an integral part of the process.”

Many people seem afraid of the risk because they are more comfortable with old problems than with the challenge of devising new solutions. The difference is attitude. When you seek out potential leaders, look for people who seek solutions.

^{1 Source: Leadership, John Maxwell}