Why Leave a Toxic Organization?

In my study of toxic leadership over the years, I have found that many authors - experts in their various fields whether psychology, theology, or business management - want to give hope to their readers. They provide many excellent ideas on how to remain under a toxic leader while pursuing a flourishing ministry. "Self-differentiation", conflict … Continue reading Why Leave a Toxic Organization?

Leadership: Respecting the Image

It is interesting that in recent years, secular management experts have more and more given leaders help in biblical leadership. Where businesses and organizations were populated by leaders like Henry Ford and more recently, Steve Jobs, the focus in management research has moved towards respecting God's image-bearers. God's Image in My Employees Mind you, those … Continue reading Leadership: Respecting the Image

Experiencing Matthew 7 Under a Toxic Boss

This is part 4 of a series of articles describing the experiences of Christian organization employees working under abusive bosses. These articles are the fruit of interviews with employees who sought diligently to respond to their foul bosses in biblical and thoughtful ways. This article describes their application of Matthew 7:1-6. This site is largely … Continue reading Experiencing Matthew 7 Under a Toxic Boss

The Failure of Boards and Preempting Toxic Strikes

Let's say a group of 40 current and former missionaries sent a letter to you as a member of the Board of Directors for a Christian organization. In that letter, the missionaries complained that the leadership of the organization treated employees and nationals harshly and lacked integrity and accountability.  Not only did these particular missionaries … Continue reading The Failure of Boards and Preempting Toxic Strikes

Self-Differentiation: Standing with Wisdom

I recently heard John's story, a long-time Christian whose leadership in his church was scuttled by the others on the leadership team. It was a difficult story to hear. My friend, John*, is "self-differentiated."  This was a new term to me just a few years ago. I was working on a doctorate and studying abusive … Continue reading Self-Differentiation: Standing with Wisdom