Travel Boundaries
I made a New Year's Resolution at the beginning of 2007 not to travel more than 30 nights this year. I'm actually going to stick with the same number for 2008. It's been awfully hard turning down speaking invitations. Lora and I have learned to laugh at me because I always say that every invitation is "an amazing opportunity." I have a hard time saying "no." And part of the reason is that I always feel so honored by each invite.
One of the lessons I'm learning this year is the importance of boundaries between family and ministry. You have to make conscientious pre-decisions or you'll make bad decisions! If I have to compromise, I want to compromise ministry instead of family! Our staff works really hard, but we also have a motto: family first. If there is ever a conflict between family and ministry it's a no brainer. My of my greatest desires is for my kids to grow up and be grateful they were PKs.
On that note, my 2007 calendar is booked. Actually, I have reserved two nights in case I get one of those crazy invitations I can't turn down. And 2008 is about half-booked. Just accepted an invitation to speak for Willow Creek Canada at their two national events next year. Excited about crossing the border. I might actually make a couple trips out of country to speak. I feel like it helps me keep things in perspective!
My game plan moving forward is to split speaking engagements for 2008 between leadership conferences and book tours. I'll do a few Chase the Lion events in the Winter/Spring. And then I'll transition into a Wild Goose Chase tour in the Summer/Fall of 08.
One of the lessons I'm learning this year is the importance of boundaries between family and ministry. You have to make conscientious pre-decisions or you'll make bad decisions! If I have to compromise, I want to compromise ministry instead of family! Our staff works really hard, but we also have a motto: family first. If there is ever a conflict between family and ministry it's a no brainer. My of my greatest desires is for my kids to grow up and be grateful they were PKs.
On that note, my 2007 calendar is booked. Actually, I have reserved two nights in case I get one of those crazy invitations I can't turn down. And 2008 is about half-booked. Just accepted an invitation to speak for Willow Creek Canada at their two national events next year. Excited about crossing the border. I might actually make a couple trips out of country to speak. I feel like it helps me keep things in perspective!
My game plan moving forward is to split speaking engagements for 2008 between leadership conferences and book tours. I'll do a few Chase the Lion events in the Winter/Spring. And then I'll transition into a Wild Goose Chase tour in the Summer/Fall of 08.
1 Comments:
Hey bro - I think that is a grand idea to set a limit like that... and actually stick to it! As much as the rest of us wish we could have you at all of our "special events" - your family needs you more. I appreciate your willingness to travel the 30 days and your commitment to make sure you don't over do it.
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