What Would It Be Like…

One of my favorite phrases to start a dreaming conversation is “What would it be like…”. It invites input and allows for the development of an idea without judgement.

I use this phrase in all areas of my life. It works wonders in hashing out conflict in the home. It allows me to open topics with my adult children without triggering “I’m not a child.”. It invites the critic in church leadership to consider multiple possibilities for a new idea. It unlocks potential from a self doubting pastor.

Recently, I asked myself what it would be like to tell other church leaders about my leadership style and the principles I have learned in my varied experiences. My first response was fear that no one would be interested or worse, that my ideas would be rejected. What if I am asked questions for which I don’t have answers. Fear. Thankfully scripture is clear that we are not to fear.

I considered again, what would it be like? Sure, there could be rejection, but there are also other alternatives. It could go well. I could help people avoid mistakes I have made. Maybe some would come to new understandings and expand their thinking about the mission of the church. Perhaps even some might see their own giftedness and begin to muse “What would it be like?”

My first teaching/training in a long time took place last weekend. It went better than I hoped. The information shared was received well. I was able to thoughtfully and quickly answer questions and engage the group in productive conversation. To my surprise, the presentation slides most captured by participants’ cameras were my words, my ideas. These were new thoughts to those in attendance or at least ideas worth remembering. It is humbling to be received in this way. Maybe I do have something to say.

I am not sure why I was fearful. Self doubt is a tool used by the darkness to squash what God may be trying to do through us. I fell victim. But I am thankful for my colleagues and friends who have been encouraging me over the years to share my world view, leadership strategies and entrepreneurial spirit. Thank you, friends.

Now I am pushing beyond my fear and asking again “What would it be like…to start a coaching business?” Will anyone care? What if I fail to land a single client? Or, maybe my encouragers are right. Perhaps this recent workshop is going to be the norm.

I enjoy helping leaders and the church. It continues to be part of my calling. If God has given me these skills, inclinations, tools, thought patterns and experiences it would be poor stewardship to not share them for Kingdom work.

What will it be like? I can’t wait to find out!