Riding into the Sunset

It’s probably an over-used expression and image – the cowboy in the white hat has completed the heroic task, then he quietly rides off into the sunset, signifying that his work is done. The problem is that an image like this can deeply influence our thinking, and I’m not sure that this is the best way to think about leadership transitions. Don’t get me wrong. There is a point when a deeply respected leader needs to quietly step aside and make room for his or her successor. My concern is about the year (or two or three or four) leading up to this transition. In too many cases, the slow, quiet ride into the sunset begins long before the reins are handed over. An outgoing leader has plenty of reasons for acting this way. He or she may be tired after years of effective leadership, and may not have the energy to mount a major new initiative. In fact, this leader may not even have a clear vision of what that new initiative should be, and may feel that this is better left to the one that follows. Another factor is the “legacy” question. If they make a risky move in their final years and it fails, is this how they’ll be remembered? Despite these legitimate concerns, there are even more reasons for a retiring leader to choose a different path to transition. While his or her energy may not be as high as it once was, the influence may never have been higher. He or she also knows – far better than a newcomer – the obstacles that are preventing the church or ministry or non-profit from moving forward. Why not use those final years to prepare the organization to have great success under the person that follows? Perhaps “riding into the sunset” is the right metaphor. The hero doesn’t get this privilege until the job is finished. What task is God calling you to do before you begin your ride? It’s easy to receive my blogs by email. Just sign-up on Feedburner by clicking here.]]>