The new year is a popular time for saying “yes.” “Yes” to more family time. “Yes” to exercise. “Yes” to getting plenty of rest. But what if this year, you could accomplish all these things and more because of a decision to say “no” instead?
Today on The Pod, Frank Bealer and EJ Swanson join us to talk about the practice of slowing down. As two ministry leaders fluent in large-church ministry and high-level responsibility, Frank and EJ are pros at being efficient with their time while still leaning into relationships. They share how we can all slow down and manage our days in a way that won’t drive us—or our families—to the breaking point.
Topic Timeline
Dave and Kacey talk New Year’s resolutions (2:47)
Today’s episode brought to us by The Orange Conference (7:17)
Frank Bealer addresses three lies leaders tell themselves about their calendars (8:53)
Lie 1: This is just a busy season. (8:53)
Lie 2: Next week will be better. (11:52)
Lie 3: Everyone understands. (15:57)
50 percent of people who get involved in vocational ministry quit within the first 5 years (21:32)
Sarah Bragg and Holly Crawshaw interview EJ Swanson (22:09)
How EJ knew it was time to slow down and focus on local church ministry (27:09)
One of the benefits of slowing down is getting to know yourself better (29:06)
Sometimes saying “yes” is taking opportunity, but in saying “no” you can give of yourself instead (31:49)
Prioritizing engagements based on relationships (35:08)
As leaders, sometimes we can feel like we’re better at ministry than at being parents or spouses (37:47)
Practical advice for saying “no” (40:45)
Our kids and families won’t always be there—slowing down ensures you get to be there for the important moments (43:29)
Dave’s final thoughts (45:40)
This new year, make a list of the things you’ll say “no” to (46:17)
