Have you ever had seasons in your life when you’re really busy? Perhaps you’re in one of those seasons right now – I am! How can you stay focused and keep your composure when it seems like there is too much to do?
Several years ago I heard Bill Hybels describe the 6 x 6 Plan and I have been using the 6 x 6 plan for several years and have experienced its benefits in enabling me to stay focused in the midst of a myriad of competing priorities. The 6 x 6 refers to 6 major projects that you plan to accomplish in the next 6 weeks. Hybels points out, ”Leaders incorrectly assume their most important leadership asset is their time. I humbly disagree. I believe it is a leader’s energy and ability to energize other people and new initiatives.”
I use the 6 x 6 to focus on what I need to achieve in the next six weeks. There is nothing special about 6 weeks, you may want to develop a 4 x 4 and identify the key projects you want to accomplish in 4 weeks. When you identify and think through your priorities you will be able to work with tremendous focus. Here is my current 6 x 6:
1. Prepare for a trip to Key West – I will be traveling to Key West with one of my students for the SAKW (Swim around Key West) on June 8th 2. Write a sermon for Father’s Day on June 16th 3. Prepare for teaching a Doctoral Seminar – June 24-28 4. Finish packing for a move 5. Hopefully sell our home this month (please pray) 6. Start a new job next monthHybels states, “Your leadership matters more than you think it does. Figure out the top six things that need energizing and then energize them and the people who will accomplish them.” Hybels writes in Axiom, “It was during that season I learned that deliberate disregard can be every bit as important as conscious concentration” (p. 59).
What do you need to deliberately disregard so that you can consciously concentrate on what is important? Jesus realized a proper sense of priorities as He prayed,
I glorified You on the earth, having accomplished the work which You have given Me to do. (John 17:4)
What is the work He is calling you to do?
Dr. Rick Higgins
Professor of Discipleship, Columbia International University
Follow me on twitter: rickhiggins5
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