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The Most Common Problem with Problem Solving
Every person, group, and relationship has them. As much as we want to do things that are right all the time, there are still going to be problems. And problems need to be solved. Meetings are held. Conversations are had. But, when all is said and done, the problem is still there. Admittedly, there are countless reasons why the problem does not get solved. Each situation is different, and I know this post is painting with a broad brush. Still, I think there is one common reason why many problems do not get solved. What is it? We talk about the problem instead of solving the problem. We name the problem.…
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Two Lists on Evaluation
It’s a bonus! Instead of our usual Wednesday list, we have two for you. Evaluation is a difficult process, but it is one that is necessary. Congregations must spend time evaluating the works, programs, and other areas in which they are involved. But it is difficult. Why? That’s our first list. Here are 5 common reasons why spending time evaluating is difficult. 1. It is time-consuming. It is far easier to just say, “We’re doing good!” However, honesty must prevail. Not everything is going well all the time. Real evaluation means that time will be spent digging into the details to figure out why something is or is not going…
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Friday Links Roundup: Half Pint and "Tex" Message Edition
Last night, I earned some serious brownie points with Leah. Of course, we don’t have cable anymore, but I have still been following the Yankees very closely throughout the postseason on the computer. Though they were playing (and winning!) the second game of the World Series last night, I took Leah out for a night on the town. We went out to a nice restaurant, then went to watch the musical Little House on the Prairie. Leah has always loved the books and TV show, so she was so excited, and she really enjoyed the show. While that was going on, I was able to keep up with the game…
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11 Tips for Better Meetings
It is well-known among the office staff at Lebanon Road that I despise meetings. Yes, I attend, and I am in charge of a handful each year, but I am not a fan of meetings as they are usually done. I often refer to them as a “necessary evil.” I know meetings are literally “evil,” but I think we waste a lot of time with many meetings. I love reading things that help me focus on how to make meetings better. The following list of suggestions are things that are not original with me, but that I’ve picked up over the years from various sources. If you know where these originally…
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Friday Links Roundup: LRYG is Famous Edition
We have a group of folks away this week. They are working in Beech Island, South Carolina, on a mission trip. We support the congregation there and our folks have been doing all sorts of community projects. They will also be conducting a Vacation Bible School tomorrow. Their work has gained some local attention from the media, and they are probably going to return with sunglasses and bodyguards from all their coverage! Two local TV stations have run stories this week about the work. Here is the ABC story (which focuses more on a parallel project) and here is the NBC story (which features nearly our whole group). I’ll be…
