Taking Care of Yourself As A Leader

As a kids minister, it’s easy to find ourselves so busy serving others that we don’t make time to care for ourselves. As a leader, it’s imperative to take care of yourself in order to lead effectively. If you’re like me, you’ve heard these reminders before (maybe even multiple times). With the new year approaching, it’s a great time for these reminders.

Take Care of Yourself Spiritually. Your relationship with Christ is the most important relationship in your life. Make sure you’re spending time reading the Bible, praying, and memorizing Scripture. Commit to attending corporate worship. Take a day each week for your Sabbath. Don’t be so busy SERVING Christ, that you aren’t BEING with Christ.

Take Care of Yourself Physically. This reminder may seem silly to some of you, but I’ve found it’s the one people most often neglect. We find ourselves going and going and going until we literally can go no more. We must guard ourselves to prevent burnout. Get adequate sleep. Schedule time to walk or run (this is a great time to pray or memorize Scripture.) Aim for nutritious selections with your food.

Take Care of Yourself Mentally. Be a lifelong learner. Read for work and pleasure. Audio books and podcasts (Kids Ministry 101) are great to listen to while commuting, especially in traffic. Carve out time for your hobby.

Take Care of Yourself Socially. As a kids ministry leader, it’s easy to find yourself isolated from adults not in kids ministry. Seek to be a part of an adult group in your church. Better yet, one that you aren’t leading. Be a part of a network with other kids ministry leaders from your area or state. It’s imperative to connect with other kids ministry leaders who understand the challenges of kids ministry. Take time to be with family and friends.

If you’re not intentional about these aspects in your life, they won’t happen. As you reflect on this past year and look to the upcoming year, take time to reflect and pray. In what ways can you take better care of yourself in order to be a better leader in kids ministry?