The Importance and Impact of Character on Leadership

Character is not the same thing as reputation. Loren M. Chamberlain states that “our reputation is simply what others think we are, but our character is best seen in the dark when no one else knows what we are thinking, saying or doing.” Though we may think no one sees what we do, we are mistaken. Dr. Os Guinness, in his beautifully written book of the year 2000, “Character in an Age of Image,” reminds us that character is, essentially, “who we are when no one sees but God.”

Since character is much deeper than reputation, it requires our wholehearted consideration and immediate action.  The leadership companion, “Check List for Life for Leaders,” shares some timeless wisdom about the importance and impact of the presence or lack of character in one’s leadership:

Without the bedrock of the trait of character, leaders may achieve success, wealth, and even fame, but they will never gain the respect of those they lead. Instead, lack of character will most likely be “shouted from the housetops” sooner or later through an action that showcases their true nature or through the slow decline of characterless years (2004, p. 42).

Similarly, Guinness underscores that “character is central to good leadership—not just to political leaders, but moms and dads, teachers, pastors, managers, and everyone who influences lives around them." (p.15). A leader’s character is monitored by those who know him and so it is important that he maintains a good character.

In Dr. Guinness’ book, there is a mention of three recurring motifs that are very crucial in the understanding of character, namely: core, consistency, and cost. Firstly, the core has to do with character in terms of the “inner form, or core of a person. Secondly, consistency provides a lens through which someone’s character may be examined rather than drawing wrong conclusions from a single statement or random act.  Thirdly, cost is the price paid for a consistent core-character (p. 15). Oftentimes character is best formed and most clearly revealed in the crucible of testing and that equals the cost.

Seeking to understand character in relation to God offers hope to us. He alone can shape our character in meaningful and lasting ways. Unlike man who looks at the outward appearance, God looks at the heart (1 Samuel 16:7).  He knows what is going on deep within each of our hearts and He’s able and willing to help us deal with the big and small issues therein. We should, therefore, seek His help in guarding our heart so the issues that flow from it are pleasing to Him (Proverbs 4:23). Similarly, we need God’s power and grace to maintain consistency in our character and not jeopardize our witness as Christian workers. Whenever, we face trials of many kinds, then, we should count it all joy because our character is being formed (James 1:2-4). God allows trials to come our way in order to develop perseverance in us so we are mature and complete not lacking in anything as far as our character is concerned.

References:
Chamberlain, L. M. (2009). Quote on the distinction between reputation and character.  
__________ (2004). Checklist for Life for Leaders: Timeless Wisdom & Foolproof Strategies for Making the Most of Life’s challenges& Opportunities. Nashville, TN: Nelson Books.

Guinness. O. (2000). Character in an Age of Image

The Bible: 1 Samuel 16:7; Proverbs 4:23; and James 1:2-4