Mike 
This past fall, I did a webinar for The Church Network based on my new book, Thriving in the Second Chair. I wrote the book because I’ve worked with many executive pastors and other second chair leaders who are just surviving, not thriving.
Whenever this is the case, it’s unfortunate for the second chair leader and the church or ministry that he or she serves. What makes it even more unfortunate is when they are so busy doing the work that they don’t stop to reflect on whether they’re thriving. So if you’re read this far, let me suggest a few signs that you may be just surviving:
- You are constantly frustrated with your boss.
- You have a list of people – staff and church members – that you try to avoid as much as possible … and the list is growing.
- You always feel off-balance and unsure what you should focus on.
- You feel like no one appreciates you or understands what you do.
- You feel overwhelmed and can see no relief on the horizon.
- Try to identify the root issue(s). The signs listed above are generally symptoms, not the real cause. You need to identify and address the deeper problems in order to thrive.
- Talk to your boss. I doubt that your boss wants you to just survive, but he or she may not be aware of your struggles. Even if your boss isn’t part of the underlying problem, you may find that this conversation leads to new solutions.
- Say “no” to something that’s life–draining. Second chair leaders tend to have roles that are always changing. Over time, it’s not uncommon to accumulate a number of tasks that don’t align with your gifts and passions. Find a way to hand-off one or more of these.
- Say “yes” to something that’s life–giving. In the same way, the shifts in your role may have gradually removed the most enjoyable duties. After you say “no,” then reclaim one of the responsibilities that ignites your passion.
