“From Stepping Stones to Bridges: Building Stronger Leadership Through Connection” by Bishop Martin Wilson

In the realm of leadership, how we perceive the people around us often shapes not only our leadership style but also the outcomes we achieve. As leaders, it’s essential to discern the difference between seeing people as steps and seeing them as bridges. This simple yet profound shift in perception can redefine the trajectory of both your leadership and the people under your care.

People as Steps

When leaders see people as steps, the focus tends to be on using others to advance one’s own position. Whether consciously or subconsciously, people are reduced to tools for personal gain or career advancement. The danger here lies in the transactional nature of this approach. People become means to an end, and the leader’s vision is solely about how others can help them ascend to greater heights.

In this framework:

• Personal ambition outweighs mutual growth.
• Relationships are temporary, dissolving as soon as the leader’s goals are met.
• The focus is on what others can offer in terms of resources, opportunities, or influence, often neglecting the individual’s development or needs.

While this method may yield short-term success, it comes at the cost of trust, loyalty, and long-term collaboration. Eventually, this approach creates an isolated leader, standing alone at the top, having stepped on others along the way.

People as Bridges

On the other hand, when leaders view people as bridges, they see relationships as connections meant to bring mutual value and shared success. A bridge allows passage in both directions, fostering a sense of partnership and shared purpose. Leaders who adopt this mindset understand that the true measure of success is not just personal elevation, but the upliftment of others alongside them.

In this paradigm:

• Collaboration takes precedence over individual gain.
• Relationships are built on mutual trust, respect, and genuine concern for each other’s well-being.
• The leader is intentional about bringing others alongside them, creating opportunities for growth and development.

Viewing others as bridges empowers leaders to build networks and communities that are stronger, resilient, and sustainable. It shifts leadership from a position of self-centered ambition to selfless service, ensuring that others benefit as much as the leader does. This is how lasting impact and true legacy are built—by taking others with you, not leaving them behind.

Building Bridges in Leadership

As leaders in the Ecclesia Ecumenical Leadership, our calling goes beyond personal achievement; it extends to serving others, modeling Christ-like humility, and building connections that reflect the unity of the Body of Christ. We are called not just to climb, but to lift others as we rise. Every person in our path is a potential bridge—someone who, when connected with, brings value not only to us but to the broader mission of God’s Kingdom.

Consider these guiding principles:

1. Invest in Relationships: Develop genuine, long-lasting relationships with the people you lead. See their potential, not just their utility.
2. Foster Growth in Others: Make it a priority to help those around you grow, develop, and advance in their own journeys.
3. Create Opportunities for Collaboration: Instead of competition, nurture an environment where people feel empowered to bring their gifts to the table, contributing to collective success.
4. Serve Rather Than Use: Practice servant leadership, where your role is to support and uplift others rather than use them for personal gain.

Conclusion

Leadership is not a solitary endeavor. As we lead, we must consciously decide whether we will see people as steps to climb or as bridges to connect with. The greatest leaders do not stand alone—they build bridges and create paths where others can rise alongside them. Leadership grounded in service, collaboration, and shared success is not only more rewarding but also more aligned with the values of the Kingdom. At Ecclesia Ecumenical Leadership, we strive to embody this vision as we lead with purpose and humility.

Bishop Martin Wilson.                          
Presiding Prelate, Ecclesia Ecumenical Leadership