"Kay, when you figure out how to "fire" as a rifle instead of as a shotgun; you will be a strong effective Christian leader," stated a top manufacturing executive that served with me on a pastoral search committee of a large church. As I zone in on my core responsibilities in 2009 I'm reminded of that conversation decades ago.
My problem of over-commitment and failure to eliminate the good to better address the best is not a new situation for me. I sought advice from this man I so admired for the excellence I observed in his life. He honestly recommended I seek the Lord for my purpose and primary call. He said I needed to be ruthless in making the time for the main things and never regret what other tasks were missed.
Today I know God is calling me to write. When I'm not swatting "gnats" from activities I cannot seem to wind up I love writing. As I write these posts this week I am finding myself getting frustrated with the time it is taking to disassociate and disconnect from some "hanging on" projects.
Jack Canfield said,
"Success depends on getting good at saying no without feeling guilty. You cannot get ahead with your own goals if you are always saying yes to someone else’s projects. You can only get ahead with your desired lifestyle if you are focused on the things that will produce that lifestyle."
Blog readers: help. Give your best pointer. How would you trim the fat; decline the invitation; make room for creativity and excellent work?
1 comment:
Just say No!
Seriously This has been a weak area for me in my life especially when I'm asked to serve in a leadership role just because I was a "nice guy" and they knew I wouldn't say no to helping out. We have to stop thinking we will be the bad guy (or girl) if we we say no.
One of the worst experiences I ever had was when I was asked to serve as Treasurer for a local club. I really didn't want to do it but I was talked into it by a persistent president who wasn't getting any help.
If an organization has to beg "nice people" who won't say no to fill a post then they have deeper problems than just filling that post.
What's the point of saying yes to something if your heart is not really into it? Stand firm, say No, this is not where my heart is, this is not an area I was gifted in. I appreciate you recognizing my helpfulness as a person but I will respectfully have to say NO!
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