The late Eli Goldratt (1947-2011) was a scientist who building on models and ideas from the natural world and turned the focus of his work to the leadership of change. He coined the phrase ‘Theory of Constraints’ – which at its simplest says ‘No system is operating at maximum potential, if it were there would be infinite and perfect output, there will always be at least one limiting factor, or…
Read MoreIf it ain’t broke don’t fix it
Mmm… I’m not so sure about that one… you see some things are are working just perfectly as they did fifty years ago… but are they fit for purpose now?
Read MoreHow many light bulbs does it take to change the Church?
You’ll have heard the one that asks, “How many Presbyterians does it take to change a light bulb?” “Change! Change! Really, is there something wrong with the old one!” What if we flip it and ask, “How many light bulbs does it take to change the church?” Light bulbs are a metaphor for ideas… and I’ve heard countless ideas over the years, I’ve had countless ideas, and shared them… only…
Read MoreChange 4,5,6
You can only change 3 things: structures, policies and mindsets… but you have to change them all… and mindset will always be the hardest! To effect those changes, you need to do three things… I call them steps 4, 5, 6 in honour and recognition of the change that has already happened! Change is all around and change is hard… particularly within the Church context, where despite a core belief…
Read More2021 Church Trends
8 Church trends for 2021 with Carey Nieuwhof
Read MoreSaw Sharpening
‘Why don’t you pause and sharpen the saw?’ ‘Can’t you see I’m too busy cutting these logs’ Take time to sharpen the saw! If you are not familiar with Dr Steven Covey’s phrase – google it – or check out the info and video at the link below … Covey talks about taking time for Body, Mind, Heart and Spirit – and sometimes it’s as simple as taking time to…
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SMARTER Goals
You’ll have heard of SMART goals – but what of SMARTER ones! S Specific M Measurable A Achievable R Relevant T Time Bound E Evaluated R Reviewed SMARTER Goals: iMindMap mind map template | Biggerplate
Read MoreBefore clicking SEND, think TRACKS!
Earlier today I sent an email to over 30 colleagues and had omitted to attach the attachments! Then came the flurry of phone calls and emails… “I think you forgot the attachments!” Some email apps do clever things and remind you if you have used the word “attached” but not attached any files. I’m usually quite careful and take a moment to check emails, posts, messages and tweets before zapping…
Read MoreCo-create! Get everyone on board!
“We need a sense of ownership.” How often do we hear that – or say that. BUT, We tend to own things that other people create! Authorship is better – get everyone involved – all the stakeholders in from the beginning – have everyone involved in co-creating the project, plan whatever. And when we set up an event, have it all planned and then invite neighbouring congregations and denominations don’t…
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