You probably read the header of this week’s article and thought “Janice, have you lost your mind?” Trust me on this one, I am running on full. I’ve noticed lots of skewed perceptions floating around when it comes to the idea of “quitting” and thought it was time to address it.
As an avid athlete and lover of the idea of competition—quitting is not at the top of my list of preferred activities. As a mother, it is not a word I readily let slip by in my home. However, there are some instances where quitting is the BEST thing to do. Today we’re going to focus on what I call “The Terrib
le Three”:
1. Projects that require TOO much time and energy.
2. Mr. Potential-not-profitable
3. Miss Productive-yet-problematic
For many of us leaders number one is easy to handle–it may take an adjust, but we will survive. But numbers two and three…well, that’s a different story. Ridding our ministries of unhealthy people can be TOUGH for the Christ-centered leader. We’ll explore why in a moment. Let’s take a closer look at the these three:
Projects. Great tools to develop synergy and focus in a community. They can also become energy vampires if you’re not careful. Having a great idea that requires long man-hours for long stretches of time exhausts you, your team and diminishes your effectiveness. Beware of the “big” idea.
Mr. Potential-not-Profitable (PNP) How often do we as compassionate leaders surround ourselves with loyal, loving people full of potential. It’s easy to do–we attract who we are. However, when searching for character it is important that we omit not competency. As leaders called to transform lives through our work we MUST surround ourselves with people who have willing hearts AND the SKILLS to get the job done. If that combo isn’t there we need to eliminate that person from the position they hold. Square pegs just don’t fit in round holes, even if the peg is your best friend.
Miss Productive-yet-Problematic (PYP) You know who “she” (or he) is–when you read the words, their picture immediately popped in your mind’s eye. Opposite of Mr. PNP, Miss PYP will get the job done! But NOT without leaving a few bodybags along the way. People such as Miss PYP are highly skilled and quite resourceful, but the cost of keeping them around is way too much. She stirs up contention, rivalry and other negativity that drags down the efficiency of the whole team. If you’ve seen her, get rid of her ASAP–her influence is infectious.
Knowing when to quit people and projects isn’t easy, especially in the beginning. But it is essential if you want to grow. Remember, if you’re ministry is not growing, then you are slowly dying and your message, your mission, your vision are dimming as well.
Drawing from the example in Deuteronomy 22:10, take a look at your roster of players and projects. Ask yourself, “Have I (an ox) yoked myself to a donkey?”
When considering projects, have I factored in the physical, mental and even spiritual toll it will take on my team and the volunteers who work with us? Is it really worth it?