Leadership Quality: Charisma

Ahab and Jezebel – 1 Kings 19:1-22:40 (negative)

Charisma is a magnetic personal attraction that draws others to the leader, making them feel better about themselves. In Greek, charisma means gift. God gives a degree of charisma to everyone. Leaders are to give it away to others; charismatic people are others-centered.

Ahab and Jezebel failed at charisma because:

  1. They set out to selfishly build their own kingdoms.
  2. They used people in order to get ahead; anyone was expendable.
  3. They worried about image and lived under false pretenses.
  4. They sulked and got angry when they didn’t get their way.
  5. They pretended to be someone they were not.
  6. They abused the authority they had been given.

Roadblocks to Charisma

Leaders who think about others and their concerns before thinking of themselves quickly develop charisma. Consider the following roadblocks to charisma:

  • Pride: Nobody wants to follow a leader who thinks he is better than everyone else. Arrogant leaders lose the respect of others.
  • Insecurity: If you are uncomfortable with yourself, others will be too. Only secure leaders can provide a secure atmosphere.
  • Moodiness: If people never know what to expect from you, they stop expecting anything. Eventually, they won’t even approach you.
  • Selfishness: People can tell if you are using them merely to reach your own goal. No healthy person stays for long in such an unhealthy environment.
  • Perfectionism: People respect the desire for excellence, but loathe unrealistic expectations. No one wants to feel the program is more important than they are.
  • Cynicism: People don’t want to be rained on by someone who sees a cloud around every silver lining. Negative leaders repulse healthy followers.

Peter Compels Others – Matthew 16:13-20

Peter was loaded with charisma and attracted others to follow him. What gave Peter this charisma?

  1. His personality: Peter seemed to possess a sanguine/choleric temperament. Usually he was the first to speak.
  2. His purpose: Peter embraced His mission as quickly as any of the twelve. He was the first to act.
  3. His people skills: Peter was drawn to people. He acted like a magnet that either attracted or repelled others.
  4. His passion: Peter had a fire inside. He wanted to please God and make a difference.

Peter a Magnet – Acts 2:1-41 (positive)

What are the Traits of a Charismatic Leader?

  1. Confidence: Peter displayed poise and optimism as a buoyant communicator.
  2. Conviction: He knew where he was going and what he had to say. He spoke straight from his heart.
  3. Connection: He focused not on himself, but on others. He magnetically connected with his audience.
  4. Compassion: He exuded warmth and love. He gave the people practical answers to their needs.

How Can We Build Charisma?

  1. Love life. Celebrate; don’t complain. Enjoy the journey.
  2. Put a “10” on everyone’s forhead. Expect the best of people and treat them well.
  3. Give people hope. Everyone looks for hope; leaders deal it out.
  4. Share yourself. Be vulnerable and real. Share your heart, wisdom, and resources.

Join me next time for Leadership Issue: Adaptability.