The New Normal

A few months ago our church began a process of restructuring staff that directly affected me.  I went from being responsible for one ministry area to being responsible for five.  Since then, transition has continued as staff make choices to stay or go and those who are left must figure out the new normal.  This week I have the awesome privilege of being a part of the Leadership Summit, a conference on leadership put on by our friends down at Willow Creek Community Church in South Barrington, IL.  Bill Hybels, founding and senior pastor of Willow Creek opened up the conference by talking about the new reality.

As I began the journey of transition back in January one of the things I kept telling people was that it was important for me to figure out what the new normal would be.  I think for all of us in leadership when we go through major changes and transition in our roles and responsibilities it’s really important that we take the time to pause, reflect and figure out what the new normal looks like.  It helps keep us from getting burnt out and increases our effectiveness at doing what we’ve been asked to do.

I needed to understand what the new demands on my time were, whom I needed to communicate with and how to effectively lead, protect and challenge those in my expanded sphere of influence.  It took time but we’re moving forward, casting vision, trying new things, experiencing the awesome power of Christ as we seek him and discovering new things about ourselves.

So, for all of you leaders out there, make sure you know what your normal routine, normal pace is, especially when you are transitioning, know your limits and set good boundaries.

More thoughts from the Leadership Summit to come I am sure.

One Response to “The New Normal”

1. Kerri Guther says:

   August 21, 2009 at 1:07 pm

   In these times, with everything changing SO rapidly it is important where we put our focus. Agreeing with the concept of figuring out the ‘new normal’ – it is important to really renew the basics in life. Re-evaluation is good but keeping it in the light of the Holy Spirit is important. We need to surrender everything to God, seeking what He wants us to be and where He wants us to go. We can examine ourselves and think “Oh, I need more compassion”, but maybe – just maybe – the Holy Spirit wants us to grow in our understanding of just who God is and what he has done for us – each one of us. Then we understand how God sees others and we would have a greater compassion for those around us. I guess it really is all about HIM. “Sometimes he calms the storm, and sometimes he calms his child in the midst of the storm.” We must be sure to allow God to set the agenda for our lives and not try to work it all out ourselves. He knows what is best!