How do members actually think about major changes in the church? The “prospect theory” from behavioral economics can provide some insights. The prospect theory argues that most individuals do not weigh decisions objectively, rather, they are influenced by whether they think they have something to gain or something to lose. For instance, in a classic experiment researchers asked one group... Continue Reading
One does not discover new lands without consenting to lose sight of the shore. Andre Gide Change leaders are people who see opportunities where others don’t. They have the courage to take great risks and the ability to make wise decisions. Frequently they aren’t even aware of the decision making process they are using when determining a change initiative, but... Continue Reading
Playing the lottery is a form of gambling. The typical lottery player repeatedly purchases numerous lottery tickets in hopes of securing a winning ticket and a cash payout. Playing the lottery has a change leadership analogy: The “Lottery Leader” seems to be constantly buying more tickets, making changes, in the hope that that at some point there will be a... Continue Reading
“It is not the strongest species that survives, nor the most intelligent, but the ones most responsive to change.” Charles Darwin Studies show that only 10% of people who have had heart bypass surgery make major changes to their diets and lifestyle behaviors afterward. Too frequently we don’t alter our behavior even in the face of overwhelming evidence we should.... Continue Reading
In 1849, French journalist Jean-Baptise Alphonse Karr wrote what was to become a famous change quote: “The more things change, the more they stay the same.” Though clearly satirical, Karr’s quotation holds true in today’s churches. Though churches are increasingly aware of the need for change and change initiatives take a variety of forms, the outcome is almost always the... Continue Reading
Anyone who has led church change has discovered that institutional changes are not as difficult for churches to make as the psychological transitions of the staff and members impacted by the change. Last post we examined William Bridges’ theory that change is situational; transition, on the other hand, is a psychological, three-phase process that people go through as they internalize... Continue Reading
Jim is a Church Organizational Leadership and Management Coach, Consultant and Trainer. Throughout his career Jim has demonstrated a passion for showing Pastors and Ministers how to use organizational tools for church and personal growth and health.
More About Jim“For I may be absent in body, but I am with you in spirit, rejoicing to see how well ordered you are and the strength of your faith in Christ.” Colossians 2:5