It’s back to school time, which for me, means it’s a crazy time! I was asked to lead our staff meeting this week, sharing a little about my leadership style. I had a hard time defining it. When I asked Tom, my right-hand man at work, he joked that it closely resembles a dictatorship. (Of course, he was joking right?!) But what did come across my email at just the right time was an article that was right on point. Whether you are in corporate leadership, church leadership, or you lead in your home, we all have influence. I hope this encourages you as much as it did me:

Hey Lauren, When God gives you influence as leader, one of the toughest challenges is to keep the light inside of you brighter than the light that’s on you. Our human nature is to let influence get to our heads so much that we forget who we are - who God created us to be. Before we know what’s happening, we can lose sight of our destiny and find ourselves off track. The good news is, by following Biblical principles and God’s work in our own lives, there is a lot we can do to keep ourselves in-check and on course as leaders. Here are three habits that can help you keep the light inside burning bright. Practice Humility. I say “practice," because I don’t think any of us ever fully achieve Christ-like humility in our lifetime. But being aware of our pride and choosing to practice humility instead is key to not being blinded by the spotlight of influence. Find an Honest Friend. There are few things that humble me quicker than an honest word from a loving friend. True friends love you so much that they don’t hold back on speaking the truth with kindness. Find a friend like this and invite them to hold you accountable even as your influence grows. Stay Focused on Jesus. Where we put our focus matters. The temptation when we are given influence is to put too much focus on ourselves - on our success, our networks, our hard work. But Scripture reminds us in 1 Corinthians 10:31 to do whatever we do, everything that we do, to the glory of God. Keeping Him at the center of everything will keep the light shining in and through us burning bright. Will you accept the challenge the cultivate a light that shines brightly through you, no matter how much God expands your influence? Love you Christine 💛

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