Mike 
I took a break from blogging over Christmas? Did you miss me? Probably not. Perhaps you’re thinking, “now that you mention it …,” but I really doubt that anyone was anxiously wondering when my next blog would appear.
The truth is that I needed a break. I love writing, but it’s been a very busy fall, and I needed to have some downtime to recharge and to enjoy Christmas with my family. In taking that break, I was reminded of a couple of important lessons that apply to anyone in leadership:
- We all need breaks. Someone once told me that it’s virtually impossible to have “balance” in life, but there should be rhythms. One of those rhythms in a healthy life is a season of putting work aside.
- Ego is one of the greatest enemies of taking breaks. We want to feel important and to be needed. If we take a break, and no one misses us, our egos take a beating. As a result, some people refuse to take a break, thereby avoiding that risk.
- The world will keep turning. Perhaps you’re concerned that things will fall apart in your organization if you take a break. They may not run as smoothly, but it’s unlikely to be a catastrophe. Just remember that God is in control – He has kept the world spinning far longer than you’ve been alive.
- If things truly would fall apart in your absence, something is seriously wrong. This is a good time to take stock. Are you developing other leaders? Are you unwilling to trust others? What conversation do you need to have with your board?
