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Reluctant Leader
Commentary
August 2, 2019
Reluctant Leader

It wasn’t always in my plans to be the Director of the Rowan Fund. In fact, my original intent was to have the Rowan Fund be a church ministry that

It wasn’t always in my plans to be the Director of the Rowan Fund. In fact, my original intent was to have the Rowan Fund be a church ministry that I would help develop, promote, and then give my time for maintenance and such. While the Rowan Fund was forming it became clear that the ministry we were building was heading on a different path that I didn’t anticipate. In order for the fund to have the greatest chance of getting grants and outside support, we needed to be a non profit 501c3 organization. So with the support of my husband and some of my close friends, we began the paperwork process.

I can still remember the first meeting with the newly assembled board. I was NERVOUS! Trying to balance the passion for change that is in my soul with the insecurities I felt in a leadership role was a delicate balance to strike. With every meeting that passed my backbone began to harden, and now going into our second year as an organization, I can honestly say I’m much more comfortable in my skin. It’s important to note that I didn’t just one day have a “change of heart” and I didn’t just do the, “fake it until you make it” route. I purposely chose to be better. Let me tell you how.

I stacked the deck. I looked into the future and envisioned what I wanted the organization to look like. I knew that I wanted an application system, relationships with specific agencies, and to try multi-faceted approaches in addressing the needs of foster and adoptive families, and so on. I also knew that I wanted constant evaluation. I sincerely wanted feedback from my fellow board members to get different points of view. None of the board members were haphazardly chosen. They all have different personality traits and strengths that make them perfect for their role.

One of my personal mantras that I often repeat is, “it’s not about me.” This mantra has been a lifesaver in the battle between me and my pride. I use this mantra when I often ask for help and advice. I have learned that it is ok that I have weaknesses, and that it is a smart move to stack the deck and surround myself with people who are strong where I am weak. In some situations, I will have strengths, and during those times I will shine! But in the others? I’ll gladly pass the baton and let others be a blessing with their gifts.

I studied and still study leadership. If you haven’t listened to the Craig Groeschel Leadership podcast, you are missing out! These podcasts are my absolute favorite and a good use of time. I’m also about to start two new books on leadership that were recommended to me by someone that I truly admire. The point here is that it’s a good thing to be a continual learner and to learn from others, including former and current leaders that I’ve encountered. What I’ve found is this: If you think there is nothing new to learn and you are threatened by change of any kind, chances are you are a stagnant leader. Stagnancy doesn't inspire innovation or excellence.

When I learn something helpful I like to pass it on. It seems that the past few weeks the topic of leadership has been at the forefront of my mind, thus inspiring this article. My hope for you is that you will find ways to improve. It’s never too late.

Jennifer Avery is the Director of the non profit agency, “The Rowan Fund”, which seeks to support adoptive and foster families in Okmulgee County. She resides in Morris, OK with her husband and two children. Questions or comments? Send them to RowanFamilyTree@gmail.com.

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