“Common sense!” I bet as soon as you read that exclamation, the voice in your head yelled it back at you. This is not a very supportive comment, nor is it a comment that provides any clarity. I’d go so far as to say that, 9 out of 10 times, there’s an awkward silence after that comment because nobody knows how to respond to it.
I personally don’t like that comment in any situation, but I know that it is something you never say when you are trying to develop others to become leaders. Always remember: “There are no stupid questions.”
Everyone is still learning. If you are done learning, well then you have already passed on from this world into your eternal place. So be more patient and more supportive. I return again to John Rinaldo’s blog at www.realministry.org and urge you to make leadership development intentional.
Here are four ways to develop leaders: pass on books about leadership, suggest podcasts to listen to about your ministry, budget for them to attend conferences related to your ministry, and meet one-on-one monthly to discuss successes and areas of improvement.
Makana Aiona is the diocesan coordinator for Young Adult Ministry