Week 2: The Second Secret – One Minute Praisings

"The best minute I spend is the one I spend encouraging someone." – Ken Blanchard and Spencer Johnson, The One Minute Manager


The second secret of The One Minute Manager is One Minute Praisings. This principle emphasizes the importance of quick, focused praise to reinforce positive behavior and actions. As pastors, it’s easy to focus on the things that need improvement, but One Minute Praisings encourages us to celebrate and affirm what is already going well. In a small church, where resources may be limited, recognizing and celebrating the efforts of your team can go a long way in boosting morale and encouraging continued growth.

Why One Minute Praisings Matter:

In the book, Blanchard and Johnson explain, “The best minute I spend is the one I spend encouraging someone.” This short, intentional praise helps people feel valued and motivated, which is crucial in a church environment. When volunteers, staff, or congregants receive praise for their contributions, it reinforces their commitment and encourages them to continue giving their best.

Strategic Insights for Small Church Pastors:

  1. Be Specific in Your Praise: Rather than general praise like “Good job,” be specific about what you are appreciating. For example, instead of saying, “Thanks for your hard work,” say, “I really appreciated the way you led the youth group this week, especially how you engaged everyone in the discussion.”

  2. Praise Publicly and Privately: While private praise is essential, public affirmation can also go a long way in motivating your team. During church services or meetings, take a moment to highlight someone’s contribution, whether it’s a volunteer, a leader, or even a congregant making an impact.

  3. Recognize Efforts Regularly: Don't wait for major accomplishments to praise your team—offer One Minute Praisings regularly. Acknowledge small wins, like a successful outreach or a well-organized event. This helps maintain momentum and keeps morale high.

Application:

Consider the example of a volunteer who consistently helps with church setup each week. Instead of only thanking them at the end of the month, a One Minute Praising could sound like, “Thank you for setting up the chairs again this morning. Your attention to detail makes our worship space so welcoming, and I’m so grateful for your consistency.” This quick recognition will motivate them to continue serving, and others will be encouraged to follow suit. 




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