My observation is that we are conditioned to talk first and think second. How many leaders have you witnessed, when asked a question, say nothing or reply by saying "let me go away and think about it!" As a leader there is a great pressure to come up with an instant answer regardless of whether it is right or wrong. We assume that by giving a response quickly we are a better or more effective leader. As someone that likes talking and the sound of his own voice, it's comes as no problem for me to want to answer all questions quickly and with accuracy.
However, recently I have been trying to reverse my instinct and challenge how I communicate with those under my leadership. Maybe they have noticed, maybe not, but what has become apparent is that I say to much and not enough time thinking, praying and discerning answers that may lie beyond my initial reaction. For example in my mentoring sessions, I am very conscious that I have become less scared of silence. Just because nothing is being spoken doesn't mean nothing is being thought through. I still struggle to refrain from filling the silent void with another question because I don't want my mentee to feel I have disengaged or not a good enough mentor that can come up with another question. I am learning the importance of asking good questions that get to the heart of the matter rather than average questions that simple skim the surface. One question should be all that is required to allow others to process their inner thoughts and feelings.
Einstein's quote has also challenged me to think again about something I need to develop. Preparation. By nature, I love improvising (making it up as I go along) and have the spiritual gift of "blagging." I can confess that my preparation has not always been sufficient or effective but just about good enough to get me by. However, this is not good enough for God and the people I lead. In recent months, I have made an effort and choice to use my time more wisely in preparing for worship, team meetings and other events. For example, I am doing a speaking engagement tomorrow (Wednesday) and all my prep was done by last Friday. This now gives me the flexibility to edit and refine my thoughts, powerpoint and take time to pray for those who will be its recipients. Also, in recent weeks have I have tried to prepare worship by Wednesday or Thursday so that I can ensure I have time to make changes and be more confident in my message and hope for it. This has also meant that I am thinking about the coming Sunday from the commencement of the week which means I have come up with more creative, fun and helpful illustrations that if I had left my preparation to Friday which has often increased the pressure to come up with the ideas. Often these have not been adequate but not brilliant or possible even that helpful.
Doing the preparation doesn't restrict my nature for spontaneity or flexibility but provides a firm foundation to work from that can only provide a better outcome or impact for those I lead.
How do you spend your hour?
Matt
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