Leadership Lab
Step into the Leadership Lab! Join us for an engaging journey through 8 Paradoxes of Great Leadership, where bold ideas meet thoughtful discussion. Our first session kicks off October 23 at 1:00 PM, and we’ll dive into Chapter 1—so come ready to share your insights and learn from others. Need a copy of the book? Reach out to the BBA office by October 16 to secure yours. This is more than a book club—it's a space to grow, challenge perspectives, and lead with purpose. Let’s explore what makes great leaders truly great!
This group will meet once a month, virtually via MS TEAMS, for one hour to discuss insights from the book and challenge each other to apply what we are learning to our ministry contexts.
In Eight Paradozes of Great Leadership, Tim Elmore explores the complex and often contradictory traits that define truly effective leaders in today’s rapidly changing world. Drawing from real-life stories, research, and decades of leadership experience, Elmore presents eight paradoxes that challenge conventional thinking and offer a fresh framework for leadership development—especially relevant for church and ministry leaders navigating diverse teams and generational shifts.
Each paradox highlights a tension that great leaders must learn to balance:
Confidence and Humility – Leaders must inspire trust with confidence while remaining teachable and humble.
Vision and Blind Spots – A clear vision is vital, but blind spots can spark creativity and unconventional thinking.
Visibility and Invisibility – Leaders must be present and seen, yet also empower others by stepping back.
Inclusion and Independence – Embrace diverse voices while maintaining the courage to make tough decisions.
High Standards and Grace – Hold people accountable while showing compassion and understanding.
Boldness and Caution – Take decisive action while practicing thoughtful reflection.
Results and Relationships – Focus on outcomes without neglecting the people who make them possible.
Adaptability and Consistency – Stay flexible in methods while remaining grounded in core values.
Elmore emphasizes that these paradoxes are not problems to solve but tensions to manage. For church leaders, this means leading with emotional intelligence, spiritual discernment, and a willingness to grow through complexity. The book encourages leaders to model Christ-like leadership that is both strong and servant-hearted.