Unravel Hidden PotentialUzorak

Leading with the Heart

My request for more resources for my project was answered by the company by sending me someone who had been found a misfit elsewhere. As he settled in, his lack of interest and motivation dragged down the team’s effort.

As pressure mounted for his removal, something inside kept telling me to give him more time. I asked him to shadow me in all my customer calls and meetings – to observe and to learn. I also felt the urge to pray for him. Progress continued to be slow, and I told him that he needed to improve. In frustration, I blurted out, ‘I am praying for you’. That got him thinking.

A few days later, he was putting in longer hours, totally engaged with the project. Soon after this, I assigned him to another project. One day he called me, so excited that he could barely speak, and said, ‘Sir, I’ve been asked to go to Europe for the project’. As he expressed his gratitude, I realized the investment in him had been worthwhile.

Jesus loved the misfits and spent time with them (Lk 7:34). He changed them and then used them to change the world. Saul the persecutor became Paul the apostle. The Samaritan woman, of dubious character, became an evangelist to her people. Jesus prayed for Peter when he faltered and denied Him and gave him a chance to come back (22:32). He looked beyond their faults and saw the potential in each one of them.

In the hurry for optimum results, one would normally choose the best talent available, weeding out the laggards. But there are always moments when we have to carry with us those that do not fit the bill. It’s in these moments that our leadership is tested. After all, anybody can work with great talent. Do we treat these ‘misfits’ with disdain, or do we make an extra effort to help them scale up?

Obama, former US President said, ‘Find somebody to be successful for. Raise their hopes. Think of their needs.'

Lord, help me look out for those the world ignores, and be an instrument in making a difference in their lives.