Why Strong Leaders Don’t Wish for Easier Problems
Have you ever caught yourself wishing that leadership would get easier over time? That as you gained experience, the challenges you faced would somehow shrink in difficulty? The reality is quite the opposite. As you grow, the problems don’t get smaller—you get stronger.
This shift in mindset is one of the most powerful realizations any leader can have. True leadership isn’t about eliminating challenges; it’s about developing the strength and skills to handle bigger, more complex problems with confidence and clarity.
The Growth Mindset of Strong Leaders
Think back to five or ten years ago. The obstacles you faced at that time probably felt overwhelming. Yet today, you’re tackling even bigger, more complex challenges. What changed? It wasn’t the size of the problems—it was you.
Leadership is a constant journey of growth. Each challenge you overcome strengthens your ability to lead through the next one. The key is to stop wishing for problems to disappear and instead focus on leveling up your ability to solve them.
In a church setting, this truth becomes even more evident. Church leaders don’t just deal with logistics—they navigate deep spiritual and relational challenges. From declining attendance to community conflicts to guiding people through spiritual growth, the problems can feel endless. But these obstacles aren’t meant to break you; they’re meant to build you into a stronger, more effective leader.
Problems Don't Shrink—You Grow
It’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking that someday, the struggles will ease up. That once your church reaches a certain size or once you have the right team in place, the challenges will become more manageable. But leadership doesn’t work that way.
The reality is that every stage of growth brings new challenges. A small church plant wrestles with how to attract and retain visitors. A mid-sized church struggles with keeping people engaged and involved. A large, multi-campus church faces the complexities of leadership development and maintaining a unified vision.
No matter where you are in your leadership journey, there will always be challenges. The difference between a struggling leader and a thriving leader is how they respond to those challenges.
The Leadership Shift: Embrace the Hard Stuff
Great leaders don’t shy away from difficult problems—they lean into them. Instead of wasting energy wishing things were easier, they invest their time in growing their capacity to handle what’s ahead.
Here’s how you can do the same:
- Change Your Perspective on Problems
Instead of seeing challenges as roadblocks, view them as opportunities to grow. Every obstacle you overcome adds another tool to your leadership toolbox. - Commit to Continuous Learning
Leadership isn’t about having all the answers—it’s about being willing to learn. Whether through books, podcasts, mentorship, or hands-on experience, the best leaders are lifelong learners. - Strengthen Your Problem-Solving Skills
Many leadership challenges come down to problem-solving. Work on improving your ability to analyze situations, seek wise counsel, and take decisive action. - Develop a Resilient Mindset
Tough times are inevitable. The leaders who thrive are the ones who refuse to let setbacks define them. Cultivate resilience by remembering why you started and staying focused on the bigger picture. - Build a Strong Leadership Team
You don’t have to face every challenge alone. Surround yourself with capable leaders who share your vision and can help carry the weight of leadership with you.
Leadership Isn't About Avoiding Challenges—It's About Mastering Them
Imagine how your church would transform if you embraced challenges instead of fearing them. What if you saw declining engagement not as a crisis, but as an opportunity to deepen connections? What if you approached conflict not with dread, but as a chance to lead with wisdom and grace?The best leaders don’t pray for easier problems; they work to become better leaders. They build the skills, mindset, and habits that equip them to face any challenge with confidence.So the next time you’re feeling overwhelmed by leadership struggles, ask yourself: How is this moment shaping me into a stronger, wiser leader? Instead of waiting for an easier season, step into the challenge and grow into the leader you were meant to be.
Connect with me on LinkedIn
If this message resonated with you, I’d love to continue the conversation. Connect with me on LinkedIn for more leadership insights, practical strategies, and encouragement on your leadership journey. Let’s grow stronger together.
