...that is the question. I'm the type of person who likes to be busy. I really don't do well being idle (even at parties thrown for me, I prefer to help and serve and clean up). I find that I am more productive when there is more on my plate (not less).
Though you could probably say that for the last few months my plate has been a bit too full which has impeded the true quality of my work....hopefully that will shift now that the big things are over and I can fall into a "normal" (whatever that is) routine again at work.
Anyway, back to the point of the post....in being a busy person, I am generally quick to say yes to things (hence the over committed side of my life). I also tend to be the type that is invited to do lots of things for lots of people. Every time I turn around I am being asked to do something new. Now, in many ways, it's flattering. Really, it's nice to have a good reputation and for people to want me to help with their project (or board or committee or whatever). On the other hand, it seems like my name is just a good name to throw out there whenever they need a young pastor for a job or when they need someone ready to say yes.
In other words, I get a lot of requests. I am finally (it only took me four years in full time ministry) trying to be more discerning about where I say yes and where I say no.
Though I have to be honest, in the last 3 weeks, I've been trying to discern one such decision and I have a leaning, but I'm not totally sure that it's true discernment and not just my gut. I think I need to go back to MEM's advice and actually write things down and use the Ignatius Method of Discernment.
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