Escaping the 'Boss' Mentality: Leading with Purpose in Charitable Schools, Colleges, and Hospitals.

Schools, colleges, hospitals, and places of worship are typically managed by a group of individuals who come together to form a charitable trust or society. In reality, it is this trust or society that holds the responsibility for these institutions, and no single person has complete authority over their ownership, operations, or decision-making.

However, it's common to encounter a “Boss” mentality among some trustees or society members who begin to assume total control over the running and ownership of these institutions.

This mindset can create conflicts among trustees and goes against the very principles of charity. At best, it disrupts the smooth functioning of the institution, and at worst, it can result in the cancellation, loss or takeover of assets, especially if there are lands that have been granted at concessional rates by government authorities.

In this way, the "Boss" trap is like trying to hold sand in a clenched fist—the tighter you squeeze, the more likely it is to slip away. The more control one tries to exert, the more fragile the future of the institution becomes.

In conclusion, fostering a spirit of collaboration and shared responsibility is vital when managing charitable institutions like schools, hospitals, and places of worship. The "Boss" mentality can undermine the very foundation of charity, creating discord and putting the organization's future at risk. By embracing a community-focused approach, trustees and society members can ensure that these institutions thrive for the benefit of all. Remember, charity is about serving others, not asserting control.