I was leading a non-profit board when we faced a divisive issue. Emotions were high, so we brought in a seasoned mediator to help us find a solution. The mediator recommended activities focused on building relationships and consensus to allow us to move forward.
I, and a couple other board leaders, decided the issues couldn’t wait. We pushed through a plan to solve the problem. Unfortunately, our solution produced hurt feelings, broken relationships, and reputational damage to the organization.
By failing to take the advice of a seasoned guide, I embodied the caution of Proverbs 19:27: “Stop listening to instruction, my son, and you will stray from the words of knowledge.”
By doing things my way, I missed both an opportunity to grow and an opportunity to serve others.
Lesson learned.
Today’s Integrity Moment was provided by author and speaker, Tom Petersen. Tom C. Petersen is a former utility communications professional who writes about work and faith. Connect on LinkedIn or tomcpetersen.com.
