Shane & Shane on Leading Well for the Long Haul

After sitting down with Shane & Shane for a candid and laughter-filled conversation, we walked away with valuable insights for anyone seeking to thrive in ministry for the long haul. Here are their top lessons from 20 years in worship ministry:

Longevity

• Check your motives: Do you have a heart to serve God’s people? Don’t chase the spotlight or applause. Ministry is about serving God and His people.
• Cultivate a heart satisfied in Jesus: Your life in Christ is a collection of a thousand tiny decisions over time. Spiritual health grows from small, daily habits: confession, prayer, Scripture, and honest self-reflection.

Collaboration

• Don’t lead alone: Surround yourself with people who care about you, not your platform; family, friends, and fellow leaders who keep you humble and accountable.
• Embrace honest feedback: Invite voices into your life who will tell you the truth and help you grow, even when it’s uncomfortable.

Healthiness

• Stay humble: Let your home life and real community remind you that your identity isn’t in your ministry role. Remember, you still have to take the trash out.
• Resist isolation: Vulnerability and authentic relationships are essential for a healthy heart and sustainable leadership. Take the risk to be known.
• Pursue balance: Make space for rest, fun, and activities outside of ministry to fuel creativity and prevent burnout.
• Laugh at yourself: Awkward moments happen to everyone, and humor is a gift that keeps leaders humble.

If you want to hear more practical leadership wisdom and some funny behind-the-scenes stories, check out the latest episode of the Slingshot Group Podcast with Brian Taylor, Shane Barnard, and Shane Everett.