There’s nothing more energizing than serving on a healthy, unified team. And nothing more draining than when the team just isn’t clicking.
If you’re a leader who senses that something is off, this post is for you.
Let me say up front: I’m grateful to work with a healthy, mission-focused team. But I’ve also been in ministry long enough to know what dysfunction looks and feels like.
Here’s what you can do when your team isn’t healthy—and a few things you can’t.
1. You Can Set the Tone
As a leader, your words and behavior create culture.
- Speak life into your team—even when morale is low
- Lead with humility and consistency
- Celebrate wins, give credit, and model accountability
People mirror what they see. Set the tone you hope to replicate.
2. You Can Create Space for Honest Conversations
Sometimes dysfunction festers because no one feels safe enough to name it.
- Ask thoughtful questions and really listen
- Make feedback a normal part of your rhythm
- Clarify expectations often
You can’t force honesty. But you can make it easier to come by.
3. You Can Own What’s Yours
If you’ve contributed to the problem (intentionally or not), own it.
- Apologize without defensiveness
- Adjust your leadership based on what you’re learning
- Don’t excuse bad behavior just because it’s yours
Owning your part builds trust—even when it’s uncomfortable.
4. You Can’t Fix What People Won’t Face
You can’t change someone’s attitude for them.
- You can invite reflection, but not force repentance
- You can offer help, but not force health
- You can set standards, but not make people care
Some people won’t grow until they’re ready. That’s hard—but it’s not your burden to carry alone.
5. You Can’t Lead with Fear
Fear-based leadership never produces long-term health.
- Don’t avoid hard conversations just to keep the peace
- Don’t let toxic behavior slide because you fear conflict
- Don’t settle for dysfunction just because it’s familiar
Courageous leadership means addressing what others ignore.
Final Thoughts
You can’t control everything on your team—but you’re not powerless either.
Be faithful with what is in your hands. Be prayerful about what’s not. And trust that God is more committed to the health of your team than you are.
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