The leader of every project must determine what to do and when to do it.
To help with these decisions I create lists. For example, with our “Church to House” project, I have two lists in my Evernote App. The “Must Do” list captures tasks that are critical and urgent. The “Should Do” list captures tasks that are not immediately critical. The should-do tasks probably will be completed someday, but they are not currently high priority.
Generally, the should-do tasks are pushed aside. I don’t pay much attention to them unless something needs to move to the must-do list or a particularly good opportunity comes up.
The second scenario happened. Lukas and Matt are 20-something year old friends in Lancaster County. Nancy and I have known both of them since they were babies. Currently they work as arborists, but they are both planning to leave the area within the next few weeks. They are willing to take on some extra jobs before they go.
Even though taking care of tree issues is not a top priority for me right now, it will be within the next year. If I hire these guys now I will give them work and I will have confidence of getting excellent service at a reduced (friends and family) price. Spending extra money now will cut costs in the long run.
So, this week I hired Lukas and Matt cut down a dozen or so trees that were too close to the building.
I hope to find a number of these “coincidental” scenarios as we complete this project. With God’s help we will see these kinds of win-win opportunities that will enable us to be a blessing to others and keep our costs in check. For me, this is one of the joys of leadership. It requires creativity and flexibility when prioritizing tasks.