I wasn't sure how to react when she handed me the book. The book featured a frog, hanging on a clock on its cover, with the title "Eat That Frog!: 21 Great Ways To Stop Procrastinating and Get More Done in Less Time." Then she said something that gave me even greater pause: "Chris, you need to read this book, and I'm willing to mentor you. I have management training with a black belt in Six Sigma Certification. I think you need my help."
Initially, I wanted to brush her off because it all sounded so unusual, but after discussing it with my wife, who works in human resources, she confirmed that achieving the black belt level in Six Sigma Certification was a significant accomplishment. I realized I'd be foolish not to accept mentoring from someone with such expertise. It turned out to be one of the wisest decisions I've ever made. Not because of this volunteer's background, but because having a mentor who later became a coach significantly helped me grow as a leader and professional in the ministry world.
You might be wondering, "Do I need a coach for ministry?" The answer is yes, and while it may seem like a luxury, it's essential and more accessible than you might think. When considering acquiring a ministry coach, here's what you need to do:
GET READY TO LEAD CHANGE WITHIN YOURSELF
Often, I work with clients who want to change their volunteers, programs, and systems. While these are all worthwhile goals, the change needs to begin within you. If you're not willing to put in the effort to address your habits and behaviors, it makes the coach's job nearly impossible.
If you look at your ministry and feel like everyone else needs to change first, you may not be ready for a coach. If you consistently feel like a victim with no control over the current situation, you might not be ready for their advice. Embracing the idea that you need to change doesn't mean you are the problem. It might mean adjusting your perspectives, expectations, and goals. When you make yourself adaptable, you're better at following advice.
MAKE IT A PRIORITY, NOT A LUXURY
There have been times when initial conversations with clients occurred at odd hours or on their days off. Usually, people choose odd times or off days because they feel guilty about taking time away from their work. It's crucial to remember that your growth as a leader is part of your work.
Viewing personal development as an afterthought is like embarking on a long road trip without a full tank of gas. Just as it's smarter to fuel up before the journey, investing in your formation first is the same. They'll help you approach big projects and daily tasks with a fresh perspective and efficient habits.
Yes, coaching may require an investment of time and money, but the returns will make you more productive than ever before. When setting up a coaching relationship, try to schedule regular and consistent meetings (e.g., every first Monday of the month). Establishing a fixed schedule ensures that coaching remains at the forefront of your priorities.
DETERMINE THE TYPE OF COACH YOU NEED
When that volunteer approached me, she saw that I needed help with team management. I struggled with delegation and clarifying expectations. She assisted me in improving those skills, among others. She's not the only coach I've ever had. I've received coaching on starting a business and public speaking. Some of these relationships lasted for years, while others lasted only a few weeks.
Not all coaches are generalists, and not everyone requires coaching in every aspect of their life. At Marathon Youth Ministry, we offer management and leadership coaching through the lens of ministry (Click HERE to set up a free consultation). We aren't equipped to assist with every aspect of a person's life, even though these areas may intersect. When searching for a coach, make sure to understand their level of expertise so that their services align with your needs.
While we offer coaching at Marathon Youth Ministry (Click HERE to set up a free consultation), you don't have to choose us. You don't have to spend much money to find a coach. There are likely individuals in your parish who would be willing to mentor or guide you through ministry. Talk to your colleagues and identify individuals who have excelled in the areas where you want to grow. They may not be certified coaches, but they can mentor you and offer advice over a cup of coffee.
I can't tell you how many times I've approached someone in our parish for advice on various topics such as finances, marriage, parenting, management, leadership, or public speaking. It all starts with an invitation where you ask, "I'd love to pick your brain on INSERT TOPIC HERE. Would you be open for a chat?" Some people may decline due to their busy schedules, but many will accept your request because you've acknowledged their expertise, and people genuinely want to help.
So, don't hesitate to seek out a coach. Reach out to people in your community or set up a free consultation (CLICK HERE) with us at Marathon Youth Ministry. Recognize that your value as a ministry leader is worth the investment. Believe that there are people who want to support you, and don't be afraid to seek guidance and mentorship from others. After all, even leaders need accompaniment on their journey to growth and success.