Are You Smiling?

“Runners never seem to smile.” This comment, from someone who clearly had a disdain for running, was made during a break in a seminar. Since I’m a runner, I disagreed. But then I thought further and realized she had a point. I don’t smile when I run.  It is a strenuous activity, so even though I love it, my enjoyment doesn’t translate into my facial expression. When it comes to running, that’s not a problem. Leadership is hard work as well. In contrast to running, however, those who are around you need to know that you find joy in your job. I am not talking about superficial happiness or a grin-and-bear-it expression. You should be passionate about your ministry and should find a deep satisfaction in the opportunity to lead. If that is missing, what does it communicate to those who follow? Here’s the difference in the two activities. When I run, it’s for my own benefit. Even though I know there’s great value in running, I’m not trying to recruit anyone else to my cause. In contrast, you never lead solely for your benefit. There are always others to motivate in order to achieve a bigger purpose. If you want their best, you need to show that the benefits are worth the effort and that there can be joy in the journey. Sure, the work is serious, but if they only see you frown (or grimmace or complain), they may wonder why they should go the extra mile. So how often do they see you smile?]]>