Thought for the Day “Putting People in Their Right Place to Succeed”

Dear Friends,

Last night at our elders’ meeting we were discussing potential leaders for our church.  Essentially, we were trying to figure out how to “put people in their right place.” Who among our members is best suited to be a deacon, elder, or trustee? The discussion got me to thinking about my coaching days.

As a former basketball and football coach, I know the importance of “putting people in their right place” to be successful. Successful coaches know the value of using players in a way that maximizes their talents and abilities. You wouldn't put the smallest member of your basketball team at center where someone tall is needed to rebound or the slowest member of your team at guard where someone with speed is needed to lead a fast break. 

I remember reading about a coach who wanted to teach his players the importance of placing players where their size and abilities could best be utilized. One day in practice he took his five starters and played each of them in different positions than they were accustomed to playing. A guard was designated to play center, a center was asked to bring the ball up court and play the role of a guard and the forward was asked to play out front where he would distribute the ball. He pitted them against the second team in a practice scrimmage game, and the second team easily defeated the starters.

It is important for a coach or a leader to know how to put his team members in positions where their strengths and abilities can be maximized. Like a coach, sometimes a leader must move his members around before he puts together his best team. If  team members are being asked to do something they are not suited for, the chances are that the team will not realize its full potential. Teams will do best when each member is placed in a position where their strengths or “sweet spots” are maximized.

I read about a pastor who every year asked each of his team if there was anything  they would rather be doing, and if so, what would it be? From those answers he got a clue about whether members might be moved to different roles to better utilize their strengths and abilities. 

A good leader is not afraid to move people around until he/she finds a place where they best fit.

As a leader it may mean making three or four moves before you get it right, but never be afraid to experiment. You might find you have a star in the making, ready to suddenly shine, all because “you put them in their place.”

Yours in faith and friendship,

Pastor Tom