The DNA Update for United Methodists with Dr. Don Nations ~ November 2013

The DNA Update for United Methodists with Dr. Don Nations ~ November 2013

In This Issue:

A Tale of Two Pastors

Better Choices, Better Outcomes

A Tale of Two Pastors

Two pastors new to ministry recently faced similar situations.  The church had someone with a strong personality in a leadership position.  The person had done some good things for the church but also tended to be controlling, resistant to change and not open to other’s ideas.  There was a desire by some to move the person out of their leadership position.

The first pastor thought through the situation and envisioned likely outcomes and how the person would react.  She came up with an option that sought to make the best of the situation with the person having less power but also being excited about their new role.  She had some anxiety about the situation and talked to her coach before acting.  She brought about positive change with her pastoral approach.

The second pastor agreed that the leader needed to go and was happy to see it happen.  He held the vote and made the change and then informed the person via email.  The reaction was explosive and divisive.  The person left the church and encouraged all of their friends to do so as well.  Those who remained were unsettled, income declined and tension remained.

What made the difference between these two situations?  The first pastor demonstrated self-awareness, attention to the emotional aspects of the situation and a willingness to use outside assistance.  These three things are essential for those who want to be effective in ministry in today’s complicated contexts.

Better Choices, Better Outcomes

Better choices lead to better outcomes.  How do you make better choices?  It is not just from making poorer choices and living with the outcomes.  A better way to make better choices is to be intentional about giving people the tools and skills they need to do so.

DNA Coaching can help you do this through a customized approach which blends any or all of the following:

· DISC personality/behavior assessment, interpretation and training

· Exercises to improve self-awareness

· Applying Positive Psychology to help create more Positive Pastors

· Individual coaching (in-person and online)

· Group coaching (in-person and online)

· Ministry skills training

· Assessments which can be shared with counseling professionals

· Mentoring people new to ministry

· Helping pastors make the move to a larger congregation

· Working with those at risk of transitioning out of professional ministry

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Our mailing address is: 

DNA Coaching

6339 Sturbridge Court

Sarasota, FL 34238

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