Don’t be the weak link!

It is noble and a great sign of maturity to always count the cost before embarking on any project or commitment, as much as possible. Desire or admiration alone should not be the driving force behind the things we choose to engage in as adults.

The Scriptures clearly admonish us to count the cost before building a tower, for instance, to ensure we have sufficient resources to begin and complete the project excellently. Otherwise, we risk abandoning it halfway due to a lack of resources, becoming the subject of mockery from onlookers who wonder why we started something we could not finish.

When taking up leadership roles, many people fail to properly assess the responsibilities and demands of the positions they seek before plunging in—perhaps out of excitement, pressure, or even curiosity. Different leadership positions come with varying degrees of expectations. It is crucial to conduct thorough research and determine whether the role’s spiritual, physical, intellectual, and temperamental demands align with your capabilities.

Similarly, some individuals enter friendships and relationships without first considering the possible implications and whether they are adequately prepared for such commitments.

Placing yourself in such situations may tarnish your reputation in ways that are difficult to repair. In leadership roles, accepting a position for which one is ill-equipped can make you the weak link in an organisation.

It is not enough to simply admire or desire a particular office or portfolio; you must also understand the expectations and assess whether you possess the necessary skills, beyond educational qualifications, to excel in that role. Failing to do so may not only lead to personal failure but could also damage your reputation as someone who could not handle a position of responsibility.

At times, individuals are placed in roles that surpass their current capacity due to various considerations. If you ever find yourself in such a position and genuinely wish to succeed, take immediate steps to upgrade your skills, temperament, and exposure. By doing so, you can rise to the challenge and avoid being the weak link in the team due to your inability to meet goals and expectations.

The ultimate aim of assuming any position should be to leave a lasting legacy, ensuring success beyond merely holding a title.

If you find yourself in any of these situations, you must make a deliberate choice—either to rise to the demands of your role or, if you have assessed yourself and concluded that it is beyond your capability, to step aside honourably. This will prevent you from constantly facing criticism or repercussions for being the weak link in the team.

Do not take on roles or offices without being certain that your abilities match their demands.

Until I come your way again, I encourage you to make continuous self-development a lifelong pursuit.

By Sharoneez Emephia