7 Deadly Sins of Women in Leadership: Overcome Self-Defeating Behaviour in Work and Ministry

by Kate Coleman

For the first time in modern history, God is placing women in strategic positions of influence and leadership within the church, public, corporate, charity and voluntary sectors, in unprecedented numbers. Women are called to flourish in these arenas. However, there are significant external and internal issues that hinder women in leadership in unique ways. In the 7 Deadly Sins of Women in Leadership, Kate Coleman considers what lies at the root of the many challenges facing women leaders and discusses ways of dealing with them. Effective leadership starts with you and she explains how • Overcome limiting self-perceptions • Establish boundaries • Develop a tailor-made personal vision • Cultivate a healthy work/life rhythm • Stop being a people-pleaser • Learn to confront not collude • Be intentional with your inner circle This book will enable you to identify and overcome self-defeating patterns of behaviour, in ways that will radically transform your leadership capabilities. Written for every leader from any sector!

Genres: Leadership, Christian, Womens

320 pages, Paperback

First published August 1, 2010

Reviews

[Jessie T · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great book, speaking specifically into the intersection of being a woman and a leader (in ministry). The examples here are helpful for women regardless of leading in ministry or a secular workplace. There are some good nuggets of wisdom here. This is a good book for dipping into now and again too. I think it would be most beneficial to read this with others and discuss each chapter (and the Coaching Tips questions) together.

[Jenny · Rating 4 out of 5]

I recently finished a 9-month course of leadership, and I don't know why we didn't just read this book instead as it was so much more helpful. It covers some really interesting topics such as conflict, family/work balance, boundaries and person vision. I would definitely go back to this book if I was struggling in a certain area of leadership - full of practical advice and really relatable real-life examples. I was worried it would be overly focused upon Church leadership roles only, but that's actually quite minimal - this definitely applies to women working in all kinds of sectors of work, in lots of different types of workplaces.

[Tracy · Rating 5 out of 5]

A well written, practical book with theological grounding. The writer covers key foundational areas that must be continually developed in the life of any leader. I particularly appreciated the specific examples of what each “sin” could look like as it helped me identify and call out ways in which I was living in that way and ways I could improve. Will definitely be coming back to my notes for more wisdom.

[Justin Wilkins · Rating 2 out of 5]

Good general principles in some places, but so much of the good is overshadowed by her strong feminist impulse for strong, independent female leadership. In many places, she seems hostile toward male leadership, though in others she argues that men and women both have purposes in leadership. Lots of bones, a little meat. The best parts were some one-liners and discussions on vision, conflict management, and boundaries between work and home.

[Helen Connell · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found this an interesting read especially as joined in a Twitter book club to read it. I couldn't agree with everything she said but there are certainly many nougats which make it worth reading. The style is easy to read and the sections make it easy to complete a chapter in a few days whilst also giving it plenty of attention.

[Dani · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this book after my job was made redundant. I realised I made mistakes in all 7 areas. Should have read this book 4 years ago! Highly recommened to all women.

[Jordan Chitwood · Rating 5 out of 5]

An exceptional read for anyone in a leadership position

[Karen Wrobbel · Rating 3 out of 5]

A helpful list of behaviors that can work against women in their work and ministry.

[Rod White · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really like this book! It is simply written, well-laid out, designed for people who want to read in bits and pieces. It is a frank discussion of what Christian women, in particular, face when they are called to lead. It is also a good book for men who lead, as well, not only because they might make room for women, but becasue the insight of women crucial for presenting the whole image of God to the world, male and female, by the church.

[Carolyn Schofield · Rating 5 out of 5]

Best read in conjunction with attending the courses Kate runs, or as a book group type activity. I found it at times incredibly challenging, especially the practical exercises and coaching tips but at the end I had much more confidence in myself as a leader.

[Linda Braeuninger · Rating 4 out of 5]

Insightful

Coleman has great insight to the strengths and weaknesses of women in leadership. She connects it all through Biblical passages in a wonderful way.