In our exploration of the biblical concept of stewardship, we've delved into the mindset shift required to view our leadership roles as a sacred trust rather than a burden (read here). We've also discussed practical ways to put this principle into practice (Read here), from empowering our teams to embracing a servant-leader mentality.
But the true power of stewardship lies in its transformative potential – not just for ourselves as leaders, but for our organizations, our communities, and the world around us. Research supports the positive impact of stewardship leadership, highlighting its ability to cultivate growth, purpose, and a sense of responsibility in both individuals and organizations (e.g., Wang et al., 2017).
Empowering People for Growth
Steward leaders foster a culture of growth among their teams. Yukl (2010) discovered that servant leadership, which has many similarities to stewardship leadership, is positively associated with employee empowerment and development. Steward leaders believe in their employees' potential and actively encourage their development through learning and skill-building opportunities, to assist individuals in reaching their full potential.
Additionally, steward leaders recognize the importance of collaborative decision-making. They empower their teams and gain access to broader perspectives by involving them in decision-making. Liden et al. (1997) found that stewardship-related leadership behaviors, such as participation-oriented decision-making, are associated with higher employee trust and empowerment. This collaborative approach cultivates a sense of ownership and accountability within the team.
Unleashing Organizational Excellence
By embracing a stewardship mindset, leaders become more than just CEOs or managers. They help their organization attain excellence. Traditional leadership styles often prioritize short-term gains and individual performance metrics. This can be effective immediately, but it can also limit an organization's potential for long-term success. In contrast, leaders who embrace a stewardship mindset take a broader view. They prioritize the well-being of the entire organization and its stakeholders, which include employees, customers, the community, and the environment. This shift in focus unlocks several key pathways to achieving organizational excellence.
Teams are empowered by this change, which sparks creativity and a feeling of direction. When given freedom and responsibility, employees grow more engaged and productive. As stewards, leaders make the most of their teams' combined strength to create a flexible and resilient workplace. Employee potential is unlocked in this collaborative and empowering environment, resulting in both individual and organizational transformation.
Strengthening Community Ties by reflecting God’s love
The call to stewardship extends beyond our organizations. Micah 6:8 reminds us, "He has shown you, O man, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God." As leaders, we are called to use our resources and influence to strengthen the communities around us. As Steward leaders, it’s important to recognize that our organization exists within a larger community. We are called to contribute to social good and environmental well-being, creating a positive ripple effect that extends beyond the walls of our organization.
By fostering a sense of shared purpose that extends beyond just profit, we create a more meaningful work environment. This sense of purpose boosts morale and engagement within our team. Research by Fry and Larsen (2008) demonstrates that shared purpose, a key component of stewardship leadership, is linked to increased employee well-being and job satisfaction.
Partnering with local organizations, supporting worthy causes, and advocating for justice become expressions of our faith and stewardship. By using our resources and connections for the greater good, we generate a positive ripple effect that strengthens the community and improves people's lives.
Planting Seeds of Hope & leaving a Lasting Legacy
Perhaps the most transformative aspect of stewardship is the legacy it creates. Isaiah 61:3 speaks of those who "will rebuild the ancient ruins and restore the desolated cities; they will rebuild what was destroyed in the past and repair the ruins of long ago." As stewards, we are called to plant seeds for the future, building organizations and communities that will continue to thrive long after we are gone.
By investing in and empowering our employees, we create a purpose-driven organization that thrives beyond our leadership. Our focus shifts from personal gain to creating something lasting and meaningful for future generations. In essence, stewardship is about planting seeds and creating an environment in which positive change can flourish long after we have moved on.
Building a Sustainable Future
Steward leaders take a long-term view. Their decisions consider not just immediate results, but also the impact on future generations and the environment. This focus on sustainability ensures that the organization thrives not just in the present, but also in the years to come. Research by Wang et al. (2017) suggests that stewardship leadership is positively correlated with an organization's environmental sustainability performance. Furthermore, steward leaders prioritize ethical conduct in all aspects of their work. This commitment to ethical decision-making builds trust and fosters a positive reputation, which in turn attracts and retains top talent. A study by Treviño and Weaver (1995) found that ethical leadership is associated with increased employee trust, organizational commitment, and citizenship behaviors.
Embracing the Stewardship Mindset
Stewardship has multiple transformative powers in leadership. It promotes innovation because empowered and engaged teams are more likely to think creatively and devise novel solutions. Furthermore, emphasizing long-term sustainability and ethical practices promotes a more resilient and successful organization. Finally, steward leaders can inspire positive change within and beyond their organizations, paving the way for a more responsible and sustainable future.
Stewardship is more than just a management philosophy; it's a way of living out our faith. By embracing this call, we become instruments of positive change, leaving the world a better place than we found it.
So, let us continue to cultivate this mindset, putting it into practice in our daily lives and leadership roles. Let us be faithful stewards of the gifts we've been given, using them to create a better future for all.
References
Fry, L. W., & Larsen, E. R. (2008). Toward a theory of purpose in work: A review and framework. Journal of Management, 34(6), 1156-1172.
Liden, R. C., Sparrowe, R. T., & Wayne, S. J. (1997). Leader–member exchange theory: Review, implications, and future directions. Academy of Management Review, 22(1), 614-654.
Treviño, L. K., & Weaver, G. R. (1995). The ethical implications of relationships in organizations. Research in Organizational Behavior, 17, 143-188.
Wang, J., Jiang, K., & Wei, Y. (2017). The effects of transformational leadership, servant leadership, and stewardship on corporate environmental sustainability performance. Journal of Business Ethics, 144(4), 801-816.
Yukl, G. (2010). Leadership in organizations (7th ed.). Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson Prentice Hall.
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