Trying to teach someone how to do something that you do not do does not make much sense. I would never attempt to teach someone how to fly an airplane because I do not know how to pilot a plane. If you have never played guitar, it is likely you won’t take time today to teach someone how to play. We teach people things we know. We teach people things we do.
One of the easiest ways that I learn is by doing. I am a hands-on person so when I am trying to learn something, it is important that I learn by doing. What helps as well is seeing someone else teach by example. In the time of how-to videos, I’m sure you or someone you know is keen on watching instruction videos to help learn how to knot a tie or make a new recipe.
When teaching and leading others, we must be aware of the example we leave. That is the biggest lesson we provide. People watch what you are doing and hear what you are speaking. Any inconsistencies between what you say and what you do will be noted. If the words you speak and the actions you take do not line up well, your teaching and leading will not be very effective. Be transparent. Be consistent. Teach and lead by example.
“Well then, if you teach others, why don’t you teach yourself? You tell others not to steal, but do you steal? You say it is wrong to commit adultery, but do you commit adultery? You condemn idolatry, but do you use items stolen from pagan temples? You are so proud of knowing the law, but you dishonor God by breaking it.” – Romans 2:21-23 [NLT]
Tania Gutekunst 