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7.0 The Rules of the Game

In groups there is a predominance of roles. The Austrian psychoanalyst Raoul Schindler has developed a frequently quoted model for group ranking that includes the roles of leader (alpha), expert (beta), follower or simple group member (gamma) and an antithesis to alpha (omega). In most cases the group of followers is about 80% of the group. Depending on the situation, it turns towards the conductor or the opposite pole (omega). Attention: Omegas are also important for us managers! They keep us in balance and always bring us to the ground. Even Jesus had a Judas. We must recognize, steer and use this group dynamic as a leader, then it can become very valuable for the Kingdom of God. If it cannot be steered, it can destroy a group. 

 

One tool is our social and charismatic ability. That includes:

  1. Empathy (do I recognize negative feelings and thoughts in my employees quickly enough and can I understand them?)
  2. persuasiveness (can I convince as many people as possible of myself and my path?)
  3. steadfastness (how much criticism and crisis does it take to make me buckle, which is shown by aggression or depression?)

 

As a leader, you have to learn all three skills. Among other things, it is also a fruit of the Holy Spirit and grows in you when you are closely connected with Jesus. However, it takes time and is simply weaker in the beginning.

A tool besides our social and charismatic ability are the rules of the game. Rules of the game create a culture. And culture is the fuel for your team and your work. They regulate the social interaction with each other, the way of working and how to deal with crises and conflicts. Like all other areas, the rules of the game evolve over time and become better, more effective, and above all, they penetrate an organization until they become a fixed DNA that can be changed, if at all, with great effort and perseverance. In many churches and organizations the rules of the game are not even consciously established. They’ve recorded it and grinded it in. That’s why it’s so important to consciously establish the rules of the game in your own team and then make sure that they are adhered to.