Advent-inspired tips for effective leadership
Each year, I intend to fully immerse myself in Advent, calmly preparing my heart and home for Christ’s coming. But somewhere between Elf on a Shelf, last-minute Christmas shopping and increased work demands, I can hardly prepare for the next day, let alone Christmas. But good leaders know that preparation is key, whether they’re leading a ministry, a team or a household. Here are three tips inspired by Advent that can help all of us prepare more intentionally in our leadership.
Each year, I intend to fully immerse myself in Advent, calmly preparing my heart and home for Christ’s coming. But somewhere between Elf on a Shelf, last-minute Christmas shopping and increased work demands, I can hardly prepare for the next day, let alone Christmas. But good leaders know that preparation is key, whether they’re leading a ministry, a team or a household. Here are three tips inspired by Advent that can help all of us prepare more intentionally in our leadership.
1. Start with reflection: Know your goals
Effective preparation in leadership begins with reflection, just as we reflect on the coming of Christ and the meaning of his arrival in our lives in Advent. Take time to clarify your goals and the purpose of your leadership. Whether you’re planning a parish event or leading a project at work, ask yourself: What do I hope to achieve? What impact do I want to have? Start with clear goals and set the stage for intentional and purposeful action.
2. Break it down: Small steps lead to big success
Advent is a season of small, meaningful steps that prepare us for the big celebration of Christmas – lighting candles one at a time, praying and slowly decorating our homes. In leadership, the same principle applies. Rather than becoming overwhelmed by the enormity of a task, break it down into manageable steps. Start a big task with a checklist and tackle one item at a time. Small, consistent actions build momentum and ensure that nothing important gets overlooked.
3. Prepare for the unexpected: Flexibility is key
Good leaders know that preparation involves being ready for the unexpected. Despite your best efforts, things will not always go as planned. The sound system might fail at your parish event, or a key team member might be out sick. Anticipate potential challenges and have a Plan B (and C) ready to go. Flexibility in leadership doesn’t mean you’re unprepared; it means you’re so well-prepared that you can adapt to whatever comes your way.
This Advent, let’s spend time reflecting on our goals, taking small but steady steps and readying ourselves for the unexpected. This way, we can not only lead more effectively, but we also create space for something greater to unfold – just as Advent prepares us for the joy and wonder of Christmas.
Dan Cellucci is the CEO of the Catholic Leadership Institute.
