Problems in ministry can be surprisingly many, and surprisingly big. Ministers suffer many things that congregants may never suspect. Over the years, I developed a system for dealing with them: List the problems in writing. Now they are not just amorphous, threatening things, but they are there to be grasped. Write down what you think your course of action will be. In the fray, this can get lost. Write down a reminder of each step which has been taken, when it is taken. Note also those steps which will be taken, with a date if appropriate -- maybe even possible scenarios. OBSERVATION: I also keep problem communications and friendly communications apart. This offers some pace and control. Of course, they do get jumbled up -- but it seems a good idea. I also have a list of general advice and encouragement for myself.
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