While anger is a common emotion among people, it rarely produces anything worthy of God. When we work with people, we will inevitably be disappointed and frustrated with their behavior. They will eventually let us down. They may question our leadership or even challenge us directly. A time will surely come when we are tempted to tell people exactly what we think! Perhaps they have already informed us of what they think and so they certainly “deserve” to receive an earful from us!
Wise leaders choose their words carefully. They ask, “Will speaking harshly with this person make them better? Will it remedy the situation? Will it build a stronger team or make our organization more effective? Or, will it merely make me feel better? (at least temporarily).”
Foolish leaders allow themselves to be drawn into pointless arguments and disputes that distract them and the people they lead from their primary cause. Endless arguments will polarize an organization and stifle morale. Wise leaders seek to end disputes before they begin. They calm tempers rather than heaping coals onto the fire. Astute leaders focus on what is best for their people and their organization rather than on defending their own reputation. Effective leaders use their words masterfully.