Written by Ben Griffin, LINC's CEO

One of my favorite movie storylines is that of the underdog. The one who presses through the hardest situations, overcomes every challenge and comes out on top.

In every one of those stories, there was a moment when someone did not think that they could make it. Where they were ready to give in and give up. And in those moments of desperation someone else came into the picture who helped them press through, do more, be more than they thought that they could. Someone who reminded them of their potential and would not let them give up.

So many epic heroes would have never achieved their potential if not for those who encouraged them in their critical moment.

Where would Frodo be without Samwise?

Luke Skywalker would not have taken down the death star if Han Solo hadn’t swung in at just the right moment.

And a real life example: Walt Disney would never have achieved his dream if Fred Disney had not encouraged him when things were not going his way.

One of Jesus’ followers in the New Testament was so adept at building up others that they literally renamed him Barnabas. A nick-name that literally means, son of encouragement.

Can you think of someone who has been Barnabas for you?

And let us consider how to may spur one another on toward love and good deeds. Hebrews 10:24

We all need someone to spur us on.

Imagine a community where everyone did just this, encouraged one another.

This is what our work cultures should be like. This is what the greater Christian community should look like. A team of people, working together and spurring one another on for a greater purpose.

Church community should be both classroom and team sport. We are in this together!

So what does this practically look like? What kind of encouragement makes a difference?

LINC is in the business of empowering everyday leaders to be and do all that God has called them to. Through our experience with hundreds of leaders over the years, I’ve compiled a list of the 5 types of guides that every leader needs to be successful.

The 5 types of guides every leader needs to be successful

MENTOR: A mentor is an experienced and trusted advisor who provides wisdom, insights, and guidance based on their own journey. They help you see the bigger picture, offering long-term perspective and personal development advice. Mentors often focus on the "why" and "what" of leadership and life.

COACH: A coach helps leaders improve performance by focusing on specific skills, goals, and measurable outcomes. They ask the right questions to guide self-reflection and help leaders navigate challenges. Coaches emphasize the "how" and keep leaders accountable for their progress.

CHEERLEADER: A cheerleader offers encouragement, support, and affirmation. They believe in you when you might doubt yourself and provide a steady stream of positive reinforcement. They keep your spirits high, especially during tough times, and remind you of your potential.

Co-PILOT: A co-pilot is someone who shares the journey with you. They are a peer or colleague who understands your challenges because they are in it with you. Co-pilots offer real-time collaboration, helping you brainstorm, problem-solve, and make decisions in the moment.

Anti-MENTOR: An anti-mentor is someone who unintentionally shows you what not to do. By observing their mistakes or negative behaviors, you learn important lessons about leadership and life. While not a direct guide, the anti-mentor’s actions provide valuable examples of what to avoid.

In what ways have these types of guides shown up in your life?