10 tips for starting up a new project

Chris Richards is on the leadership team of Basingstoke Community Churches. We asked her for any tips she would like to give to those who want to start a new project in their community, and this is what she had to say. Chris is also a trustee for Care for the Family.

1 THINK BIG START SMALL

Many big organisations have begun in a back room. It’s easier to plant a seed than a tree. Who knows how big it will grow!

2 WORK IN TEAM

We work better with support and a sharing of ideas and giftings. Find others who share your vision and who are prepared to work together with you.

3 DO YOUR RESEARCH

Are there other groups already up and running you could work with or learn from? Do you know there is a need for your project? Are there legal requirements you need to know about?
Are there grants available or would your local council support you?

4 FIND CHAMPIONS

Share your vision with others. A good communicator can advertise events, keep the project in the public eye and gain support on your behalf.

5 FIND A GOOD ADMINISTRATOR

A new project inevitably needs administration. If that is not your gift find someone who can pick up on the administrative detail. They will save you a lot of hassle and leave you to develop the big picture.

6 LOOK FOR THE OPEN DOORS

Pray that God would open the doors and watch what happens! This is a much better way than trying to make things happen in your own strength, and much more exciting!

7 LET SERVING OTHERS BE YOUR PRIORITY

There will inevitably be times of frustration and disappointment if you are setting up something new. If you keep an attitude of serving the community you will be more able to handle the difficult times

8 BE FOCUSSED

Stay clear about what you are doing. There will be pressures to get you off course. Have your original vision in mind and adapt and develop at the pace you and your team feel happy with. You cannot help everyone and there will always be more to do!

9 KNOW WHEN TO COMPROMISE AND WHEN TO STICK TO YOUR GUNS

Pick the right fights! Know which things are not so important and those that you need to fight for. Know the grace of yielding and the times to take a stand.

10 USE OBSTACLES TO SPUR YOU ON

There will inevitably be times of disappointment, frustration and discouragement if you are breaking new ground. See this as an opportunity to learn, re-group and move on. These experiences can make you wiser and more effective.
 

Last Updated 28 November 2008