One of my family members just came back from an event where they met with a very prominent leader and he told them something that hit home for me.

The leader said “just because I have the ability to do something doesn’t mean I have the calling to do it.” Translation; we don’t need to do or become involved in everything we may have the ability to do, rather choose carefully what you become involved in. People who know me have heard me say many times that weather you are building a house, changing jobs, buying a car or starting a business, more times than not there will be hidden aspects that will cost more and take more time than you originally expect.

Recently, I was asked to serve (part time) in an advisory capacity with a very prominent organization. It was an honor to have been asked to serve but when I did a self-inventory of the time required, I realized that I would be giving up other family aspects to serve in this capacity. So, I had the ability to serve but it didn’t line up with where my personal priorities were. I have people in my family, work and church that are counting on me and I felt that if I accepted that position I would be taking time away from one of those three groups and I didn’t think it would be fair to them.

Keeping your life and time in control and manageable may be one of the most important leadership decisions you can make. We cannot be all things to all people and it is smart to choose carefully where you obligate yourself and your time. When we are invited to participate in things we generally think it will be a limited commitment but more times than not, these commitments can become much more involved than originally thought.

So, choose your time carefully and don’t over commit. It is good advice. KT