4. Resist distractions. This is the only item on the play list that is a defensive move. Generally, a list like this needs to be all offense, all the time. But without some defense, you can't win the game. Distractions are lethal to busy leaders. From email to extraneous demands or from persistent sales people to the next unhappy member, sometimes you need to resist the distraction and stay focused on the priority right in front of you. You'd be amazed at how many problems are solved, in fact, just "go away" from momentum. Fight to cast vision and lead in such a way that produces momentum.

5. Experiment. In this case I don't mean to call an audible. Most church leaders don't need encouragement for more of that! I'm referring to taking a strategic risk, a planned approach to something "new and improved." Don't declare it as the new vision for the next five years. Experiment short term, maybe for six months, with something new, a better way of doing something you already do.

Make sure you measure carefully for improved results. At 12Stone® we often say, "don't just make it different, make it better." What needs to be made better at your church?

Don't make a two-year study and write a 20-page paper. Take two to three weeks to dig in, dig deep and make a new plan. The new plan should fit on one or two pages. Then experiment and make in-flight corrections. You'll likely be very pleased with the results and if not, you'll be pleased with what you learned.

6. Care. Don't underestimate the power in simply caring. At times I think it's becoming a lost art. Please don't misunderstand. I believe that church leaders care. They really do, but sometimes the demands of a busy schedule can result in an inability to keep up with everything. This sometimes results in a depletion of the finite amount of energy any one person has. The final result is no energy left to demonstrate that you care. You are so busy making things happen (and getting things done) that your relational bandwidth can run thin.

The good news is that the remedy is often a "simple play," and as long as it's from the heart you are good to go. It might be a hand-written note, or a quick phone call, or a cup of coffee with someone. It might be as simple as a thank-you card with a Starbucks gift card inside. It might be a smile and a hug. Sometimes it's just not complicated. We just need to do it.

So which of these simple plays will help you move the ball down the field today?

Dan Reiland is executive pastor at 12Stone Church in Lawrenceville, Georgia. For the original article, visit danreiland.com.

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