Do This Now To Leverage Your Rhythm
There is a rhythm to ministry. If you pay attention to this rhythm you can avoid some of the chaos that is stereotypical in youth ministry.
October 31 is one of the markers in your rhythm where most of the activities for the fall have been planned and for the most part completed. The remaining weeks you have with students between now and the New Year is minimal.
The next two weeks are a window of opportunity for you to do some critical planning for yourself, your family, and your ministry.
Block some time and consider these ideas for your planning process.
Start your New Year on November 29. This is the start of Advent and the new Christian calendar. Starting now gives you an extended time to work on your dreams and goals for the New Year. We will have more to share about this process in the final weeks leading up to Advent.
Wind down. I believe this period is the longest uninterrupted space on a Student Minister’s calendar. Be careful how you fill your calendar during these weeks. Focus on the things in your life that matter most and devote time to them.
Take time to dream and set goals. It may be hard to do this without the natural momentum of a January 1 New Year but starting now puts you way ahead of the process. With more time you can be more thoughtful whether you devote a day a week or plan a brief sabbatical.
Wind up. You will have a few days after the New Year before programming kicks off. The week between Christmas and New Year is the perfect time to start building your emotional momentum for the next season of ministry. This season starts more rapidly than the fall. If you have spent your time well winding down you should be ready.
Calendar the next shift in your rhythm. It comes earlier than you think and it’s not near as restful. Spring Break is the turning point in the spring season. You can’t get everything done during this time but getting more done here will save you stress as you face the long stretch of summer and launch in the fall.
I hope these ideas at least get you to thinking about your ministry rhythm. If you would like to discuss these ideas or more give me a call, 325-669-1517 or email me horizon.jerry@gmail.com.
My mission is to listen, encourage, and advocate for Youth Minsters everywhere. Hang in there as you shape students to shape the world.