One of the hard lessons that I have learned in my years as a leader is the “Principle of the Runway.”
The prinicple says this, “just because someone has the ability to fly doesn’t ensure they have enough runway to get off the ground.”
Let me explain…
It is estimated that a 747 with a full capacity load needs approximately 7,500-10,00 feet of runway to achieve take off. Anything less can be a disaster.
One of the qualities that most leaders have is the ability to spot talent in the lives of others. Often times, we see someone who has tremendous potential and therefore we fast-track them into a position of leadership.
Let me give you a WARNING: Talent will cause someone to appear larger than life!
Once fast-tracked, it doesn’t take long until the potential they displayed begins to wane, the passion begins to fade, their character may come into question, and they simply crash and burn. We tend to blame them for not delivering on their responsibilities when the reality is that they were set up to fail from the beginning.
The problem is not the person but the runway.
Many casualties in ministry could’ve been avoided if we had simply extended the runway or proving ground before we elevate them in ministry. I believe this is why Paul tells Timothy that leaders should be closely examined and pass a time of testing before they are put into play. (1 Tim. 3)
Slow down. Lengthen the Runway. Watch people fly.
About the Author
Dude, I love this post and it’s so very true. I have violated this principle to my own peril too many times. Pastors do indeed see potential before anyone else and we overestimate how quickly someone can take off.
We’ve got to continue to believe great things for people while giving them the necessary time to develop.
I think this is spot on and I love it….where I struggle is when I know I need the help from other leaders. Sometimes in the past that had motivated me to send some people up when they weren’t ready. I have learned that lengthening the runway sometimes means I must be patient and realize my timing is not always divine.
Great thoughts Ryan. It’s difficult to see potential in others and acknowledge that having potential is not the same as being ready. The great thing about potential is that you have it. The bad thing about potential is you don’t have it yet. The challenge for a leader is to see where someone is at in the growth process.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts.
Couldn’t agree more! My biggest mistakes in ministry have been when I haven’t allowed for enough runway and given too much responsibility or authority too soon. it’s hard to be patien, but it does pay off.
Thanks for the feedback Loui. I’ve found I’ve rarely made a mistake by being patient. Why does being patient have to be so dang tough?!