Episode 148 - Take Thoughtful Action - A Conversation with Joe Graves

Transforming Mission Podcast with Tim Bias & Sara Thomas

You can find show notes for this episode at https://transformingmission.org/148

Are you prone to action bias? Do you have an impulse to act in order to gain a sense of control over a situation and eliminate a problem? That's action bias. Or, do you tend to think about things, ponder them for a period of time, turn the idea over in your head, and contemplate different scenarios?

If you said, "I do both." You're in for a treat today. Joe Graves is Co-Lead Pastor at Central City Church.

We have a conversation about leading with the Activator talent in the midst of a pandemic. Joe shares how the coronavirus has challenged how leaders build trust, show compassion, provide stability, and offer hope.

You'll hear Joe weave together his Intellection, Ideation, and Activator strengths to lead people not just to act on an idea, but to place their hope in Jesus Christ. Whether you're prone to action bias or contemplate ideas for weeks, lean into this episode that unites thoughtful action with faithful ideas.

Then consider this:

1. What ideas are you contemplating? Make a list. Set a time frame for action. Then, act on the idea.
2. Who helps you cuts through the noise of decision-making? Have a conversation with them about an idea you're contemplating.

If you're challenged by generating ideas, start with something simple like what you're having for dinner tonight. Identify three options, talk with your spouse/family, act on the idea. While it may feel silly going through the motions of generating ideas, you're practicing the process of idea generation and the thoughtfulness of putting the idea you choose into action.

Resist the urge simply to act. This can lead to action bias. Action for the sake of action is not helpful for leaders or for your followers. The danger of action bias is always "doing" and never reflecting on what you have done, why you are doing it, and what the results or implications of your actions.

As you reflect on this episode, consider the definitions for Joe's top 5 CliftonStrengths

Activator

People exceptionally talented in the Activator theme can make things happen by turning thoughts into action. They want to do things now, rather than simply talk about them.

Command

People exceptionally talented in the Command theme have presence. They can take control of a situation and make decisions.

Futuristic

People exceptionally talented in the Futuristic theme are inspired by the future and what could be. They energize others with their visions of the future.

Ideation

People exceptionally talented in the Ideation theme are fascinated by ideas. They are able to find connections between seemingly disparate phenomena.

Intellection

People exceptionally talented in the Intellection theme are characterized by their intellectual activity. They are introspective and appreciate intellectual discussions.