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Friday Finds - Teachability, Work-Life Balance, & Organizational Chaos

And just like that, another session of my Executive Pastor Coaching Network is completed. I really enjoyed this cohort and learned a lot from them. I look forward to us continuing to sharpen one another as we share questions and insights in our ongoing facebook group, and I'm already looking forward to this fall's group (interested in joining the fall network? Read more information here).

Here are some of my favorite leadership finds this week:

How To Make Yourself Unoffendable And Teachable (And Still Maintain Your Confidence) by John Brandon via Inc.

John Brandon wisely points out the fine, fine line between staying humble and teachable while still being an expert at your job. As a leader, I'd rather err on the side of teachability. Genuine self-confidence can recognize your own skills and abilities without getting offended at the prospect that you still have things to learn. What will it be, church leaders? Will you put up a wall? Or will you remain open to being a life-long, confident learner? (I believe the health of your church staff will depend on it!)

10 Common Sentiments Pastors Wish They Could Express by Thom Rainer via ThomRainer.com

This short post couldn't be more dead-on. It pains me that often church leaders don't have people in their lives that they can be this honest with. Pastors, does this post resonate with you? Paul David Tripp said in a recent #Vandercast episode that "Pastors need to be pastored, too." Leaders, I urge you to find someone in your life who can pastor you; who you can say these things to. It will add to the longevity of your ministry.

There Is No Such Thing As Work-Life Balance by William Vanderbloemen via Forbes

William's insight on Forbes this week brought a much-needed fresh take on the thought that church leaders should take vacation directly after Easter. But maybe now is the most strategic time for you to keep your energy up; maybe the marathon isn't quite over for you yet. Read the article and comment below what you think about it. How do you recognize and establish your healthy rhythms?

Organized For Chaos by Jenni Catron via Get4Sight.com

I'm a big fan of Jenni Catron - she's even been one of the past featured facilitators of the Executive Pastor Coaching Network. How clear is your organizational chart? In her consulting, Jenni has seen so many dotted lines, exceptions, unclear job descriptions, bureaucracy within a church's organizational structure. She wisely exhorts us, "Leaders, one of our primary responsibilities is to fight for clarity." Clarity is vital for maximum effectiveness.

What are you reading this week? Let me know in the comments.