As leaders we all face the challenge to choose the right priorities, work on our weaknesses, and wisely manage our time. Once in a conversation with leaders this phrase stood out. “Just because we may have the competency to develop new competencies, should we?”

  In other words, how can we discern when to give time, resources, and attention to learning something new, working on a personal deficit, or developing a new skill or competency? Consider these questions as you discern a potential new direction.

Before I suggest a few questions, it’s worth noting that in the last few years some influential movements have arisen that bear upon this question.

• The simplicity movement in the church (i.e., Thom Rainer’s book Simple Church)
• Focusing on your strengths (Gallup’s 30 year strength’s based research resulting in the popular book Strengths Based Leadership)
• Positive psychology (psychological interventions that focus not so much on our problems, but upon the good stuff in our lives)

As I’m closing in on my 64 year mark, I realize that I don’t have the energy I did when I was thirty, and that as I age, my brain simply slows down. Actually, we begin to lose brain cells beginning in our mid-twenties, a sobering thought. So, I must wisely manage my energy, time, and passion to focus on that which I believe God wants me to accomplish in my final decades.

So the next time you consider giving significant time to a new project, addressing a personal weakness, or developing a new competency, ask yourself these questions.

1. Would this choice reinforce my God-given strengths and gifts?
2. Would it increase my potential to maximize Kingdom impact?
3. Does it fit within my life purpose? If you are not clear on your life purpose and personal values, this blog shows you how to create them.
4. Am I doing it because I’m trying to please somebody? For in-depth practical help on avoiding unhealthy people pleasing, you can check out my book on the subject here.
5. Have I carefully considered the trade-offs? Everything we add to our plate means something else has to go.

So the next time you must decide whether or not to develop a new competency or take on something new, let these questions guide your decision making.

What has helped you determine what you should add to your plate?

Related posts:

• Burnout: How to Dig Out
• Take the Ministry Stress Quiz