5 Ways to Improve Your Leadership as a Solo Pastor
Gary L . McIntosh
Leading a church alone is challenging and demanding , and it ’ s more common than you might think . 60-77 % of churches in the United States are led by solo pastors — and many are grappling with loneliness , isolation , and self-doubt as they strive to lead with limited resources and volunteers . So , what are the basics of leading as a solo pastor ? How can you stay ahead of the curve ? Here are some insights and tips to help you improve your leadership as a solo pastor .
1 . People will buy in to you before they buy in to your vision .
If you are a solo pastor , your ability to establish relationships with people in the church is more important than your ability to manage budgets , start new programs , or develop and carry out a vision for future growth . Through the close scrutiny of face-to-face relationships , people discover your true character . Your fruitfulness will hinge on people seeing you as a genuine person who cares about others . As they buy in to you , trusting you , they will buy in to your vision for the future of their church .
Vision is caught , not taught . Leading effectively happens through trusting relationships in a solo-pastor church . As you live out your life in real time among real people in real life , people catch on to what you envision for the church ’ s future . Start investing in people and others will catch on to what you ’ re doing and will want to join you in making a difference in the church .
2 . Unpack your personal baggage .
Each pastor is human and carries personal issues ( baggage ) into ministry from past experiences , particularly their family of origin . If you haven ’ t faced your personal demons ,
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