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I've been working with a client (a music ministry) lately for the last few months. And to put it plainly.....there have been unnecessary challenges.
When I first meet with a client I make sure, in that first initial consultation, that they are ready for change and are open minded to accept new ideas that could get them to the next level. In this particular case the client said he was ready and seemed excited.
I listen to their goals and views on the dream music ministry for them. I assess the rehearsals and services to see what needs to be changed in order to help them reach those goals. Then I have another consultation with them to let them know what I see and what needs to be changed.
Now in the beginning I did say he seemed excited. But some people being told or shown what they are doing wrong effects their ability to want to move forward. They start holding on tighter to what has not been working because it's comfortable and familiar......kind of like their safe place for them.
Even when you come from love in telling them what needs to be changed, they take it as you being critical. They don't want to hear that what they have been doing all these years are not working. But apparently, something inside of them already knows if they have asked for my help.
As a consultant, sometimes it is my job to help them realize the reality of the current situation and be accountable for it. Once that has been accomplished then it makes it easier to move forward.
Working with this client has been like kicking a stone wall with bare feet. I know that seems drastic but it is the absolute truth! They, in the beginning made the (what I like to call) "face lift changes" like wardrobe, pitch and diction. But that is only like putting a band aid on a wound after having heart surgery.
So, I've come to the realization that this person, as the leader, is not ready for change or the next level. They want the image of success without the work. Unfortunately this person does not realize that they have mega ministry dreams with a store front mentality.
In order for them to move ahead they will need to be accountable and ready for God to do a mind change in order to fulfill the vision of their pastor and move forward with the rest of the ministry. But as for me.....it's time to move on to the next ready client until they are truly ready for change.
When I first meet with a client I make sure, in that first initial consultation, that they are ready for change and are open minded to accept new ideas that could get them to the next level. In this particular case the client said he was ready and seemed excited.I listen to their goals and views on the dream music ministry for them. I assess the rehearsals and services to see what needs to be changed in order to help them reach those goals. Then I have another consultation with them to let them know what I see and what needs to be changed.
Now in the beginning I did say he seemed excited. But some people being told or shown what they are doing wrong effects their ability to want to move forward. They start holding on tighter to what has not been working because it's comfortable and familiar......kind of like their safe place for them.
Even when you come from love in telling them what needs to be changed, they take it as you being critical. They don't want to hear that what they have been doing all these years are not working. But apparently, something inside of them already knows if they have asked for my help.
As a consultant, sometimes it is my job to help them realize the reality of the current situation and be accountable for it. Once that has been accomplished then it makes it easier to move forward.
Working with this client has been like kicking a stone wall with bare feet. I know that seems drastic but it is the absolute truth! They, in the beginning made the (what I like to call) "face lift changes" like wardrobe, pitch and diction. But that is only like putting a band aid on a wound after having heart surgery.
So, I've come to the realization that this person, as the leader, is not ready for change or the next level. They want the image of success without the work. Unfortunately this person does not realize that they have mega ministry dreams with a store front mentality.
In order for them to move ahead they will need to be accountable and ready for God to do a mind change in order to fulfill the vision of their pastor and move forward with the rest of the ministry. But as for me.....it's time to move on to the next ready client until they are truly ready for change.
Christyl,
ReplyDeleteThank you for boldly sharing your truth. Consulting can be such a fulfilling work when clients are receptive to learn from your wisdom and expertise; but, it can also be pain, when clients do the opposite. They say, you cannot see the picture when you are the frame. This means that you need someone outside of your vision to see where you are and how you can get to where you are called to be. That being said,you cannot force anyone to take heed to good counsel. So, it is great that you realize that you can utilize your gifts elsewhere while keeping him or her in prayer.:)
Keep doing what you have been called to do and keep sharing your thoughts with us. I love reading about what is in the mind of Christyl.
Thanks Kellie for your comment and encouragement. It is always needed and appreciated. Much love.
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