When the Thought Leader Has No Time to Think

Do you consider yourself a thought leader?  If you oversee a ministry, you are perceived as a thought-leader (like it or not).  A thought leader is an individual that is recognized as an authority in a specialized field and whose expertise is sought after.  KidMin leader – that’s you!  You are casting vision for your volunteers, families, and leaders.  You are choosing or creating content that will best teach God’s word, and you are shepherding the hearts of children.  You are a thought leader.

So, when the busyness of doing ministry covers you up with meetings, phone calls, scheduling, shopping for crackers, background checks, and making endless copies, when do you have time to actually do the thinking, praying, and seeking that it takes to be a thought leader in ministry?

The reality is, if you don’t make time for it, your chances for burnout are really high.  If you are not doing what you originally felt called to do in your position, you are probably feeling tapped out.  Therefore, be intentional about carving out time to think, read, journal, ideate, pray, and eventually lead.  This is different than taking time to Sabbath and rest.

Thought leadership should be part of your work-week rhythm and regiment.  Block your calendar for at least two hours a week to devote time to this practice.  Include reading leadership books, setting goals, meeting with other colleagues and professionals in your field, and documenting your thoughts on paper.  Allowing time to truly think will enable you to be the thought leader your ministry needs you to be.