The DNA Update for United Methodists for March 2014

The DNA Update for United Methodists for March 2014
The DNA Update for United Methodists
Dr. Don Nations, March 2014
In This Issue: 
• It Starts with Trust
• A Little to the Right
It Starts with Trust
Many efforts at change fail because there is not enough trust in the system.  People, and organizations, usually take risks because they trust that the worst outcomes are not going to happen to them.  We know that people get hurt in car crashes every day but we also trust that it will not happen to us, we are better drivers than others and our car is fairly safe even if we are hit.  Nick Wallenda, the high wire artist, knows danger is inherent in what he does but he trusts his training and his equipment to keep him safe and his faith in Jesus if something should go wrong.
The systems in which we operate – church, work, family, etc. – are not perfect and all are in need of some change.  This change is unlikely, however, if there is not enough trust in the system. Honesty, open communication, deeply listening to people, avoiding labels, sharing life stories, engaging in service together, remaining in control of your actions and seeking to understand the big picture can increase the amount of trust in the system.
What will you do today to increase the trust within the systems in your life?
A Little to the Right
One of our sons is on the high school track and field team for shot and discus.  His discus throws have been landing on the right side of the field or slightly out of bounds.  A little work with his coach revealed the issue.  When he plants his foot to throw it stays in one spot like it is anchored in concrete while his body rotates.  This causes him to release the discus a little early which, for a right handed person, sends the discus to the right.  It also strains his back.  The solution: allow the foot to rotate as his body unwinds and he releases the discus.  Part of his foot stays in the same place but he can pivot on it which allows the throw to be both longer and more accurate.
So what is the point of this story, you ask?  Perhaps there are three. 
•If your performance or that of your organization is a problem, try to figure out what is going wrong.  You cannot fix what you have not identified.
•It is fine to plant your foot firmly but sometimes a little flexibility goes a long way toward resolving a situation.
•A coach can be a good person to have in your corner.  You still have to perform but they are there to support your efforts.
Contact us today and let’s discover ways we can help you perform at a higher level – don@dnacoaching.com.  
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