Self-knowledge can
allow you to compensate for weaknesses, make use of strengths and
help prevent bad things happening by accident. A few specifics:
- Humor: smart aleck is acceptable, sarcasm is not; teasing is acceptable, put downs are not.
- Moodiness – We're all moody in some form or other. What are your negative moods that can affect your ministry?
- Do you have someone that can objectively point out when you are being moody?
- You cannot quickly change your feelings, but you can change and control your behavior. If, for example, you are angry beyond what is called for by a situation you can say so out loud, and refuse the temptation to take the anger out on the kids. Privately bang on a wall or throw something if you need to...
- If you are feeling depressed or discouraged, work through it in an acceptable fashion, but don't make any rash decisions at such times.
- When exhilarated, don't make any rash promises either. Just enjoy those moments.
- Know your “hot buttons” so you'll recognize when kids are trying (consciously or unconsciously) to get your goat. Explicitly state that this is a hot button and that you are really mad, but you aren't going to let this change the situation. Then walk off to cool down.
- Let it be known that there are certain topics or situations that are off-limits.
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