An overcrowded plate is something every youth ministry deals with. It’s why we get overwhelmed and burned out. When this happens we tell ourselves, “I need someone to bail me out.”
That’s where delegation comes in. To have someone take an item off our plate would be huge. But delegating isn’t as saying, “Here, please take this.” The reality is we face several obstacles because we:
STRUGGLE TO LET GO OF THE THINGS WE LOVE
Just because you like doing something doesn’t mean you should be doing it. In fact there are items on your to-do list that would be better given to others. To delegate not only takes finding the right person, but embracing a little humility.
To help you figure out what to let go of make a list of things that you not only enjoy doing, but only you in your role can do. Ask other people to help you create that list and even take them away.
LACK TRUST FOR THOSE AROUND US
You might be clear on what needs to be delegated; the problem is you don’t know whom to trust. This can be paralyzing and even dangerous to your ministry. To build trust you need to invest in people personally and professionally.
Investment takes risk and if you aren’t ready to leap in start with something small. Work on clarifying your instructions and if they mess up use it as a teaching moment. When you trust others you can deepen your leadership.
BUY INTO THE LIES OF LEADERSHIP
There are several leadership lies we buy, like:
- Leaders need to do everything.
- Leaders need to focus only on improving weaknesses.
- Leaders have to be busy and available to everyone
The truth is that leaders are focused, trusting, and humble individuals who care more about the success of the organization than their own status.
DON’T UNDERSTAND OUR OWN LIMITS
One of the reasons you can’t or won’t delegate is because you feel like you do not have the time. But, taking the time to delegate is something you cannot afford to miss. While you might lose some time you will gain back immense amounts of productivity.
Part of your responsibility as a leader is finding men and women who are going to extend your capacity. You need to look at creating more disciple makers and investors in the next generation.
Before you say, “I don’t have time to delegate.” Think about how much time, energy and emotion you’ll save by building a team of people who will help your ministry grow. You will gain margin, lose stress and enjoy more of what God is calling you to do.
Which obstacle do you struggle to overcome the most?
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