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youth ministry

3 Intangibles of Leadership

By Doug Franklin September 12, 2013

Focus
For me, focus comes from having things in order. I accomplish the most in my ministry when I focus on the priorities. For me it’s lists – not so much a daily list, but a list that keeps me focused on the big picture. I keep a list of the next 50 things I want to do in my ministry. I check that list weekly to add and subtract as needed. I prioritize the list based on my opportunities, which allows for God to open and close doors as He sees fit. What I want to convey to you is the importance of clearing accomplished items off the list. There is nothing like hitting the delete key and knowing that I am doing what God has placed in my
heart to do.

Focus will also motivate your people. When they see you run a meeting with focus, they will understand that you have expectations and want to see things done. I go to so many meetings where I know nothing will come of the ideas shared because the leader shows no intention of following through. Focus will demonstrate to people that you are serious and
desire to reach your goals.

Courage
Being a leader often times means dealing with problems and people when things have gone wrong. It takes courage to deal with problems; but when problems are resolved, it creates high performance. Often I am too worried about how others will feel if I correct them or demand more of them. The truth is, people want to follow a leader that makes hard decisions. Many times when we fail as leaders to make hard decisions, our followers wonder why the ministry is floundering. But when hard decisions are made, trust and faith are built in a leader’s followers.

Courage comes from commitment. If you are truly committed to your mission, you will be willing to do whatever it takes to move your team forward. When I have to do something I dislike, I remind myself of my commitment and how much I value my mission. This gives me courage and the will to continue.

Faith
I have come to understand that execution requires faith. Faith that I am the leader God has placed in this ministry, and that He will lead me. I also have to trust the same is true for my staff. Faith also helps me when I can’t see the light at the end of the tunnel and I have to rely
on the basics. I know if I am committed to executing my plan, the results will follow. The hard part is sticking to the plan even when I cannot see the finish line.

About the Author

Doug Franklin

Doug Franklin is the president of LeaderTreks, an innovative leadership development organization focusing on students and youth workers. Doug and his wife, Angie, live in West Chicago, Illinois. They don’t have any kids, but they have 2 dogs that think they are children. Diesel and Penelope are Weimaraners  who never leave their side. Doug grew up in…  Read More