Time is a precious commodity. It is a constant. Only twenty-four hours exist in a day, and we cannot control time. Some think they can “save” it, but in reality, time cannot be saved; you cannot put it in the bank or invest it. You can use it wisely, and you should not waste it because time is valuable.
In a world of e-commerce, e-learning, and e-everything, we must discipline ourselves to avoid wasting time. All of us can learn to be more effective or efficient. Keep an open mind, and read on, this edition of “Ministry Time Management Tips” we will discuss “handling interruptions.”
You can be more efficient simply by handling interruptions to your workday with a simple plan. Interruptions such as phone calls and unplanned visitors can be very frustrating when you have results you must achieve.
The best way to handle interruptions is to make a decision immediately about what you will do about the interruption. You can choose from one of four options in terms of results you wish to achieve. But the fifth “D” is never an option!
1. Do it
2. Delegate it
3. Delay it
4. Drop it
5. Decide
Until you decide on a firm course of action you will neither achieve your task nor resolve the interruption. Deciding what to do lets you take charge rather than allowing interruptions to take charge of you. Interruptions from above are also common, but can be handled.
If your supervisor presents you with new priorities in the middle of what you are doing, discuss it with him/her. This way you can be sure that your supervisor is aware of all the targets you are required to meet.
The change of priorities again calls for a decision. And under these circumstances it becomes the supervisor’s responsibility to make the decision. Remember: interruptions waste time and call for decisive actions.
You must make a decision!
A lifelong Minnesotan, Phil graduated from North High in Minneapolis in 1963. At age 17, he enlisted in the National Guard and received his commission as an Army officer in 1966. After graduating from the University of Minnesota in 1970, he took a position a hospital representative for Novartis Pharmaceuticals. The same year he married his college sweetheart Annie Haviland.
In 1980, Phil gave his life to Jesus Christ and began serving in the ministry of helps at Living Word as department head over the usher ministry. Phil became licensed and ordained by Living Word in 1986. Two years later he left his position in the pharmaceutical industry and entered the ministry to serve as pastor of Triumphant Life Church in Willmar, Minnesota.
In 1994, Phil released pastoral oversight of Triumphant Life Church and began his own ophthalmic surgical supply business. Five years later, he joined the pastoral staff of Living Word where he lead the community outreach department.
Leadership has always been his passion. The experience Phil gained from U.S. Army Ranger School and numerous other leadership development courses has placed him in positions of mission responsibility throughout his military and civilian career.
The Winns have three grown children, Buddy who married Collette (Fearing) Winn, Matthew who married Lori (Johnson) Winn, and Monica who married Max Farrand. They have gifted Phil and Annie with eight grandchildren.