I went in response to a revelation and, meeting privately with those esteemed as leaders, I presented to them the gospel that I preach among the Gentiles. I wanted to be sure I was not running and had not been running my race in vain.

Galatians 2:2

Working from your strengths leads to more successes than covering your failures. That’s what I learned in the StrengthsFinder training I attended recently. One of my strengths is focus, which means I’m able to cut the fluff and keep on mission. Not everyone’s strength is focus, though.

If you have a harder time figuring out what to work on next, you’re not alone. I heard once that 30% of work is purely wasted. The project you feel compelled to do, and it’s never used, mentioned, or perhaps not even required may be part of that 30%. This kind of waste is a bit like Pareto’s Principle: 80% of the results come from 20% of the work.

For nonprofits, a great idea exists in the next conversation. A board meeting produces a way to get closer to the mission that requires what seems to be another full-time staff person without the salary to hire them. A donor is willing to fund an initiative that isn’t in the strategic plan, but there’s some truth to what they’d like to do that could make a big difference. A consultant outlines the path to success; It just requires some data-digging and benchmarking and a focus group. There’s that word again, focus. Will the focus group keep you focused on what you are trying to achieve?

Paul brought some friends (Barnabas and Titus) to Jerusalem because he had something to say. We learn he went to esteemed leaders who may have started whispers about who could–and could not–hear and accept the Gospel. (Hint: everyone can hear Jesus’ Good News.) A standout phrase in this verse is how Paul wanted to “not been running my race in vain.” 

Whether you have a list of projects already conceived or heard another to add to the list, the key is to do what won’t distract from your race. In current nonprofit language, the “race” is your mission. 

The moment you rationalize is the moment you resist. So, for example, “The board thinks it’s best if we add another program that will compliment our current programs. But it will require this person to take on…” The moment “but” enters the conversation, warning lights appear. 

How about this one? “The donor said if we implement this plan, we will get the funding. But it requires us to do some additional research…” 

Or what about, “The consultant said that we have a real shot if we test this model. We just need to get a few things in place first, which could push back the deadline…”

It’s possible those projects (or any current projects) may bring you closer to your goals and your mission. Keep in mind what you’ve already committed to do. Sluff off what won’t bring more value to the organization and the passion you serve. If there’s hesitancy, then there’s reason to pause to see if it will cause you to run the race in vain.

Here’s the question I ask myself to stay focused on the race ahead: What can only I (or the organization) do, and what can others (personally or as organizations) handle? If the suggestion from the board, the donor, or the consultant aligns with what you are already the best at doing, go forth and conquer! Run with fervency. And if not, politely move on toward working from your strengths.

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© 2023, Mollie Bond. All rights reserved. Originally published at www.molliebond.org.