3. Set Healthy Margins
We must realize and admit that we cannot do everything. For everything we say “yes” to, we are inadvertently saying “no” to something else. So be careful what you say “yes” to. Try to say “yes” to more of the right stuff—stuff in your strength zone, stuff that only you can do, and then either delegate to other leaders or say “no” when appropriate.
Why Margin Matters
Margin in the life of the leader allows:
- Space for creativity to flourish
- Thinking and decision-making to be possible
- Highlights the important over the urgent
- Keeps you enjoying life and leadership over the long haul
Practical Steps
For some of you, you need to do way less unimportant work. For others, you just need to plan an hour or two a day where nothing is scheduled, and be mindful at how much overcrowding you are doing on your daily task list. Does it overflow into all hours of the day, everyday? Are you keeping healthy expectations for how much you can accomplish each day?
At some point, you have to happily put your unfinished work down until tomorrow, and head home to be fully present with and fully enjoy your family.
4. Establish Healthy Rhythms
It is not good to go through life and leadership always in fifth gear. We need to be mindful of our exhaustion and motivation levels, and refill our tank with rest, connection with others and healthy rhythms so we can be effective spiritual leaders for the long haul.
Busy Seasons
There will be seasons that are busier than others, and in those times we need to watch for and guard our rhythms—healthy habits, time with family, and so on.
Slower Seasons
There will be seasons that will be slower than others, and in those moments we should not wish them by, but soak in rest to get ready for the next stage of the journey.
