Why You Need a Professional Growth Plan For Your Ministry

What are you reading? Besides this post. What books are you reading (or listening to) to help you grow as a leader? When was the last time you went to a conference or workshop to discover a new trait or skill? Have you enrolled in a certification or training in the previous six months?

Leaders are learners, and learners are also listeners. One of the reasons parishes and ministries struggle is because people only see leaders doing. Usually, the most significant obstacle people have to their professional development is TIME and MONEY. And I get it, budgets are tight, and many of us wear a variety of hats; however, that is, even more, the reason to focus on our development because:

IDEAS DON’T JUST APPEAR

While a few ideas come out of the blue, we often need the insight and experience of others to get the creative juices flowing. If you aren’t learning or growing, you’ll find yourself doing the same thing over and over again. Mistakes are made, and the quality of your leadership will suffer.

At the same time, you won’t stay on top of trends and changes in the world around you. Attending workshops, reading books, and listening to podcasts will help you think creatively and outside of the box. Investing in yourself will help you tackle problems and obstacles that limit your success.

YOUR JOB REQUIRES QUALITY

Many people see professional development as an extracurricular to their everyday job; it isn’t. Your job wants the best version of you, and that comes from challenging your mindset. Next time your parish starts looking at the budget, begin asking them about what’s in there for your professional growth.

While attending a conference across the country or having a professional coach isn’t reasonable, you should be able to participate in a local workshop or purchase an online course. You can get books from the library, and most podcasts are free; however, you need more than resources to do a job well, you also need training.

DOING DOESN’T SOLVE EVERYTHING

When leaders make themselves too busy, they also set themselves up for longterm headaches. As a leader, you need to margin time where you are reading or watching a webinar. You need to take time away to fuel yourself spiritually, and mentally. A busy worker isn’t always a smart one.

Start with prayer. Take ten minutes at your desk, before you open your email or do anything, set a timer and journal, read scripture, or listen to God. I find that when I get to my desk, the best way to focus is to start with prayer.

Next, look at your week and find 30 minutes to read a book that will help you grow. Check out some Tedtalks and allow yourself to think differently. Look at your calendar and commit to attending two or three local workshops. Not only will you learn new skills, but connect with other attendees who can introduce you to more ideas.

Slow yourself down, take time to breathe, listen, and learn so that you can grow and lead effectively.

What does your professional development plan for ministry look like?

Sometimes we don’t know where to start, and that’s why I want you to check out MYM University. For only $25/month, we offer online courses, discounted coaching, master classes, free webinars, and more. To learn more, click the button below.

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