How will we use the gifts we have been given?
Stewardship. It's such an important concept. Stewardship is quality use of our time, talent and resources (treasure, for those who prefer alliteration). It's so incredibly important for all of us. If we are running a nonprofit, we should recognize the value of using other people's time, talents and resources to bring a mission to life. In business, we need to be keenly aware of being stewards of our customer's or client's time. Here are some principles and thought-provokers to consider:
We are RESPONSIBLE to use what has been given, earned or lent to us responsibly. We need to manage well that which has been entrusted to us. We should manage it intentionally, getting the most out of whatever we are stewarding. Responsible stewardship includes using our own time, our own talents and our own resources well.
We are to be ACCOUNTABLE for that which we steward. We should either self-impose or respect accountability imposed on us. Two or three eyes on everything. Be truthful, upfront and transparent about that which we steward and enable and encourage others to speak to us about how well we are stewarding. Whether professionally or personally we need a trusted group of people who can hold us accountable.
We are to be TENACIOUS and keep on keepin' on. Stewardship of time, talents and resources is most often a marathon, not a sprint. Ensure you are organized, planned and have the ability and where-with-all to continue stewarding for the long-haul.
All of us have 24 hours in a day. All of us have gifts and talents. All of us have resources that we decide how to use. All of us are stewarding other people's time, talents and resources in some capacity. Let's spend some time ensuring we are good stewards and using that which has been entrusted to us as effectively as possible.
-Mindy Muller, CFRE, President/CEO of CDP
