10 Questions with Leader Lantz Howard
Apparently, Lantz Howard just became a new dad. Check out some great baby pictures on his blog. Lantz is also a frequent Twitter friend (You can follow him HERE) and today I’m featuring his 10 question leadership interview. Lantz is a youth and family minister. I’m impressed with what I see in Lantz and you’ll be impressed with his answers.
Here are 10 questions with leader Lantz Howard:
When you were growing up, are you doing what you thought you would be doing vocationally? If not, what did you want to do?
I dreamed of being a pilot since Jr High. Actually went to Lubbock Christian University with intentions of getting out and pursuing aviation school or military. During that time I had the chance to start working on my pilot’s license and realize it was fun hobby, but I enjoyed being with people. I came alive after I was with people. However, sometimes I wonder what if…
What’s the most different job you’ve had from what you are doing now and how did that job help you with what you are doing now?
Working the summers in the oil field out in West Texas. My father wanted to teach me the value of true honest, hard work and the value of higher education. Well, needless to say after many days of sun up till sun down I am thankful for hardwork and believe that this is missing from many young males lives today.
Who is one person, besides Christ, who most helped to shape your leadership and how did they help you?
Leadership…I would say my grandfather. He was diagnosed with muscular dystrophy in the late 70′s and lived until 2000. He valued relationships and connecting with people. Without those qualities one cannot be a leader.
Besides the Bible, what is one book that has most helped to shape your thought process in life and ministry?
Wild at Heart by John Eldredge. I read this book in 2001 and it has impacted my life in many ways to this day. In fact I ordered a copy earlier this week to pass on to someone.
What are three words other people would use to describe your work style/ethic?
I try to have focus, discipline, and perseverance.
What is your greatest strength in leadership?
Connecting.
What is your greatest weakness in leadership?
Working through conflict.
What is the hardest thing you have to do in leadership?
Connecting others.
What is one misconception about your leadership position you think people may have?
That I am young and don’t know a hill of beans. Well, he is in charge of the youth ministry…that is not the “real” ministry.
If you could give one piece of advice to young leaders from what you’ve learned by experience, what would it be?
Stick it out longer than what your emotions tell you. Early on in leadership you will want to run and avoid the conflict, but the one who is able to dig down and fight for what matters will overcome.
Thanks Lantz.
For those of you who are young leaders, have you, like Lance, ever felt as though your voice wasn’t heard because of your age? How did you deal with that time?
