The “Watch Me Swim” Syndrome

Written by Heidi McLaughin

When my children were growing up, we lived near the beautiful lakes and beaches of the Okanagan Lake. Which meant my two-and four-year-old needed to learn how to swim. For weeks during the summer, we went to their favorite swimming pool and while they frolicked, I sat and endured the sun-soaked bleachers. Up and down bobbed their little heads and in between breaths shouting, “Mommy watch me swim.” “Mommy, Mommy watch. Mommy you’re not watching.” They wanted me to watch and share their excitement.

And they were trying to impress me.

We grow older but nothing really changes. If you do not believe me, spend 20 minutes on Instagram. Every second post is: “Watch me. Look at me do something amazing!” Even as Christian leaders we still have the “watch me” syndrome, and I am also guilty. Watch me in this video doing a spectacular presentation. Watch my amazing international trip. So, what separates the “watch me” from reflecting the beauty of Christ, and the “watch me” to impress and show you how great I am?

The deep and honest motive of humility.

This present world is not about being humble. It is about “rock star power” influence and status. And yet the Bible tells us, “For all those who exalt themselves will be humbled and those who humble themselves will be exalted” (Luke 14:11). Humility is not being a doormat, weak and undecisive. In fact, a God given humility, where our self-esteem and image is rooted in Christ, is the most beautiful and powerful concept of being a Christian leader. It is only when we let go of our agenda, control and goals that God can begin His work.

What makes the difference?

Our confident humility comes from knowing the truth of who God is and who we are. This dependence makes leadership God-centered instead of “watch me” centered. Humbling ourselves makes room for God to give us His wisdom, His strength and His success to open doors that only God can open.

Humility makes us teachable and open to growth.

Humility listens, accepts correction and feedback and seeks wisdom. By putting others first, humility allows leaders to value others, build trust and create unity. A humble leader keeps learning and growing and reflects the leadership of Christ. The only time the “watch me” syndrome is effective for a Christian, is when our humble motive is to reflect the beauty and power of Christ.

In our present culture of idolizing our greatness, I know I must constantly check my heart. How about you?