We have three months left in the 2009-2010 Optimist International administrative year. In just three short months, new officers will be installed in their Optimist Clubs. I have seen it happen year after year, those new officers come with such fresh zeal that it is contagious and their members become filled with optimistic enthusiasm for the good things that their clubs are doing in their communities. Club members talk openly about club projects, give themselves high-fives and a pat on the back and then somewhere about six months down the road they lose their focus. Some even shut the doors and wait for a new school year to begin.
This post is a quick how-to refocus your energy so that you can inspire others to go the distance:
- Reevaluate the goals of the club - if you are done with your projects mid-year, are you really serving your community or could you do just a little bit more?
- Examine the projects that your club conducts - are the projects inclusive? Do members feel engaged? If the answers are no or maybe, it might be time to think about adding a new activity.
- Are there too many projects? - Be careful not to cause burnout with an agenda that is too aggressive.
- Look at your membership roster - are people asking to join your club? Think about reframing your message and image so that your Optimist Club is approachable.
- Take a vacation - an Optimist Club president is always in the "on" mode. Some time away might help an overwhelmed president prioritize their projects.
- Make a new list - set a new plan into action.
- Express your joy - tell others how wonderfully blessed you feel to be able to serve your fellow members and community.
Members belong to Optimist Clubs, or any club, because they want to feel a part of something that is bigger than themselves. A balanced schedule is a member maintenance tool. Keep your members happy and involved and moving in a forward direction. Your club will grow and your community will benefit.
