Imagine this, a luxurious hotel lobby primed for a special weekend, champagne and tapas on hand for sampling.  Live piano music and chair massages available to guests checking in.  Anticipation of the award-winning banquet is growing, and so is the commotion around the massage chair.  In fact, frustrated guests, confused by who was next in line, started to circle the chair like sharks.  I noticed because, I, self-proclaimed leader extraordinaire and efficiency expert, was trying to relax in afore mentioned chair.  When the second person asked to place their name on the nonexistent signup sheet, it took all of my strength not to jump out of the chair and get everything organized!  But, this was not my place or time to lead.

Have you ever been tempted to take control and resolve a situation when it wasn’t yours to take?  It is only natural.  In fact, the Secret Code of Leadership clearly states that “in a vacuum of strong leadership, an eligible leader will experience an irresistible urge to fill the vacuum with stronger leadership”.  But many of us missed the fine print which warns leaders to first consider the following:

1. Sometimes the individuals involved need more experience or hands-on learning opportunities.  It is tempting to step in too early when we know we could do a better job or a painful lesson is on the horizon for the less experienced leader.  But, we are not doing them any favors by stunting their learning curve.
   
   
2. Sometimes your role is behind the scenes as mentor or coach.  Offering guidance to an eager individual can actually be more rewarding than being out in front.  It also allows a new leader to be perceived as THE leader rather confusing teams with more than one person ‘in charge’ or person making decisions.
   
   
3. Sometimes it is more about your patience with others and tolerance for inefficiency than about leadership.  Today’s society elevates leaders who drive toward the bottom line or manage results with extreme effectiveness.  We know as Christ-followers, this is not always congruent with sincere compassion and love.
   
   
4. Sometimes it isn’t any of your business or you might (MIGHT) be wrong about what is needed.  As observers, we don’t always have all the information about past events or future goals.  It is important for us to answer the question, “Is this the time or place for my involvement?”  After all, refraining or exercising self-control is part of leadership too: self-leadership.

During my five minute massage, I had ample time to consider all four points of the fine print mentioned above.  Ultimately, I know the masseuse now understands the importance of the sign-up sheet and won’t forget it next time.  I know her manager, who received many complaints, will have the opportunity to coach her on fixing small problems before they escalate.  I know, as an individual, I am still working on tolerance AND relaxing my neck and shoulder muscles.  Finally, I know it was really none of my business, but it made for a great test of my resolve!

A man's wisdom gives him patience; it is to his glory to overlook an offense. (Proverbs 19:11)