WHEN IS A FAILED LEADER READY TO COME BACK?

Posted by Mike Foster:

Have you ever heard this comment about a second chance leader?

"I'm just not sure if he/she is ready to come back into leadership. I have my doubts about them."

Or...

"He seems sincere and 'reformed,' but how can we know for sure?"

These are pretty common questions that I hear a lot in regards of people going back into leadership after a fall.

A BASIC RULE I USE IS TO ASK THIS QUESTION:

"Who has the best line of sight?"

Or put more simply...

"Who knows this individual best and what is their opinion on the matter?"

So often those determining whether a second chance leader is ready often have a very poor "line of sight." The commentators are often uninformed, biased and sometimes have an agenda.

They go on their hunches...not the facts. They assume things based on their own fears. Often their own emotions are wrapped up into their decision on whether to support a return of the individual.

Though all this is understandable, my rule is to trust the input of those who know the leader best. I like to hear the feedback from those who are closest to that individual.

The spouse. The best friend. The parents. They typically have the clearest view of the situation.

Do they have reservations? Are they supportive? Do they feel confident that the time is right?

I'm not saying that your opinion doesn't matter but maybe we should trust those who have the best view of the situation make the call.

When it comes to restoration, put your money on those with the best line of sight.

It's not always perfect, but I think it is a grace-oriented place to start.