Author Archives: igalindo

About igalindo

Israel Galindo is Professor and Associate Dean for Lifelong Learning at Columbia Theological Seminary.

Novelty, reflection, and learning

Posted on October 20, 2008 by igalindo

I’ve observed that most folks settle into a professional routine (a rut, really) that intersects with the achievement of a certain level of competence. Once they learn the job and find efficient (if not effective) ways of doing it, they’ll … Continue reading →

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The power of multigenerational transmission in congregations

Posted on October 15, 2008 by igalindo

The Bowen theory concept of multigenerational transmission in families, although often difficult to accept, is logically appreciated. Families pass along habits, traditions, beliefs, grudges, feuds, genes, and emotional process down the generations. That force can be as powerful as a … Continue reading →

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Four goals of the organizational leader

Posted on October 14, 2008 by igalindo

Leaders approach their work in many ways. They use various frames of references to inform how they go about their work. Some, for instance, focus on the concept of “leadership style.” Others lean toward the leader-as-manager approach while others take … Continue reading →

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Anxiety and the myth of security

Posted on October 13, 2008 by igalindo

I continue to observe manifestations of how anxiety can lead to a search for security. Even before the current manic anxiety related to the financial crises, but more so now because of it, I have been observing reactivity taking the … Continue reading →

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Five personal resources for leadership

Posted on October 2, 2008 by igalindo

Purists of Bowen Family Systems Theory (BFST) tend to eschew all notions or frameworks of individualistic perspectives to therapy or interpreting families or organizations (like “personality type” or “traits” schemas). They prefer a consistent “systemic” approach that focuses on the … Continue reading →

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Five ways to become a popular leader

Posted on October 1, 2008 by igalindo

Every once in a while I need to challenge someone by asking, “Do you want to be liked or do you want to be effective?” In one sense it’s a false choice, but in another sense, leaders often will have … Continue reading →

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Differentiation of self

Posted on September 29, 2008 by igalindo

I recently received an e-mail from a friend who is doing self work. He asked: I was just wondering if you thought attaining a higher level of differentiation of self lends itself to becoming better able to manage or not … Continue reading →

Posted in bowen family systems theory, development theory, leadership, personal growth | 5 Comments

Posted on September 26, 2008 by igalindo
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Bringing about organizational change

Posted on September 24, 2008 by igalindo

Bringing about organizational change isn’t rocket science, but it’s not easy either. Those who step into a leadership position that requires engaging in institutional and organizational development in effect and by default will need to bring about changes on several … Continue reading →

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Teaching philosophy

Posted on September 23, 2008 by igalindo

I’m just beginning to gear up to teach the educational philosophy course during J-term. It’s a course I enjoy teaching and one I think of critical importance in the training of “real educators” for the church. There is some frustration … Continue reading →

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