Rev. Samuel Robles Jr.

In leadership, it's important to set goals for not only yourself, but also your leadership. From a new church perspective, it's important to take steps forward. Put "one foot in front of the other." Here is a simple method that I use to help me set goals for our group:

1) Assess my leadership group. Every group I have ever been in has its own identity, strengths, and gifts. While there are certain traits that are consistently found in various groups, there are also certain traits that make each group unique. Take time to identify them, and use them as a strength.

2) I need to also assess how my leaders can also continue to develop themselves. So while I am also assessing their strengths and gifts, I am also identifying weaknesses and areas of improvement. This is where the leader can become their coach. Be strategic about this, and challenge your leaders with love.

3) I promote teamwork. This is important because no one should be taking on heavy tasks alone. Delegate tasks appropriately, but also create ways that people can work together and collaborate. This not only enriches the project at hand, but it also builds the group cohesion and it's an opportunity for people to learn from each other. This can be a very rewarding moment.

I also want to add to this the importance of celebration! Yes, take time to celebrate, especially if you're a new church plant. A new church has no history and no archive. Just about everything that is done is usually the first time in that church's history, and every accomplishment feels great. Celebrate! Take time to pat yourself on the back, and take time to pat your leadership on the back and tell them "job well done." Be sure to reward your leadership and let them know that you appreciate them for their hard work and time. And above all, thank God, and celebrate His goodness, because without Him, none of this is possible!