The Janissaries, an elite infantry of the Ottoman Empire, formed in order to be the Sultan’s personal guard, which over time grew to be a powerful political force. During periods of peace they became involved in coup attempts, internal strife, and the destabilization of the empire. When we scan history, we find that in unstable political systems, large, standing armies can cause havoc.
What do we learn from this as leaders?
I recently spoke with a trusted friend about an organization we are both associated with. He said, “You know what’s wrong with this organization… they have the syndrome of an army not at war.” His comment struck a nerve of truth.
If you have built a team of engaged professionals, you must give them a mission. A ‘war.’ A hill to climb. As a leader, you need one, too. If they don’t have one, you run the risk of not only having a deflated team, but also turning energies unintentionally toward unimportant or even destructive matters.
Does your team have a hill to climb, a war to fight, a mission to be excited about? Or is everything running humdrum with the only goal to maintain healthy routines?
How can I support you more as a Christian leader and entrepreneur?
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