Think intentionally in all you do.
The more you can strategically plan your moves, especially in the early days of a new leadership position, the more you can help steer them to a positive outcome. In every area of your leadership, take time to think through the best way to handle the situation. Again, get input from key people. I love a good whiteboard strategy session. When you have to make changes or implement your vision, invite key, trusted people into the room and brainstorm the best way to approach it. Plan your approach. Prioritize. Strategize. You’ll have plenty of surprises along the way, but if you’re intentional in the decisions you have control over, you’ll be better prepared to handle the unexpected.
Pace your leadership for long-term success.
This is so critical. You won’t often know the length of your tenure as leader, but you should script yourself to be there for the long haul. This means you shouldn’t try to accomplish everything in the beginning. Spread some of your enthusiasm and energy over the first year or more. It will keep momentum going longer, keep you from burning out, and the church or organization from wearing out, and introduce an expectation of change—which will make change easier to make in the future. Also, think for the church or organization beyond even you—this is the honorable thing to do for any leader—don’t make it all about you. How can things keep building, healthy, vibrant and growing for the years ahead? When you set worthy visions and goals that carry people forward, help them dream and give them hope, they will want to follow your leadership. Finally, protect your soul. As the Scripture says, “Above all else guard your heart.” You will have lots of obstacles—all leaders do—you want to weather them to remain effective. And, get help when needed. (Which for me is pretty much daily.)
I’m pulling for you new leaders! Of course, my best advice: Go with God! He knows best. For another post on advice I give to young pastors—look at THIS POST.
Have you ever been the new guy? What would you advise?
