Episode 332 – Nexting: The Practice of Hope
Understanding the Concept of ‘Nexting’
Let’s get something out of the way. No, that’s not a typo. We’re talking about “nexting” this week. If you’ve ever asked, “What’s next?” you’ve participated in nexting.
So what exactly is “nexting”? It’s a way of practicing hope and encouraging conversations about plans and ideas. It allows for exploring new strategies and pathways, enabling leaders to dream, pivot, and plan effectively.
Hope and the Human Brain
Our ability to practice hope is deeply rooted in our brain’s capabilities. Our brains, endowed with imagination and time sensitivity, allow us to “time travel,” envisioning both the past and future.
This unique quality sets humans apart and fuels our capacity for hope. Even our memories and experiences help us to build hope, guiding us through challenges and enabling us to plan for a brighter future.
Hope in Leadership and Community
Leadership intertwined with hope creates a powerful synergy. Our imagination, bolstered by our ability to remember, helps us to envision positive futures. Leaders can gauge their team’s emotions and reactions through “nexting,” adjusting plans to foster a supportive and hopeful environment. Hopeful leadership naturally breeds more hope, leading to collective growth and community building.
The Contagious Nature of Hope
Hope isn’t just a personal experience; it’s a communal one. Hope can spread contagiously within communities. When leaders exude hope, they energize and uplift others, inspiring them to aspire for greater things. This contagious nature of hope strengthens communities and fosters a supportive and proactive environment.
Practical Applications of Hope
Applying hope in practical ways can significantly impact leadership effectiveness. Strategic pathways and agency in leadership can activate parts of the brain associated with hope. This isn’t just theoretical; it’s grounded in reality. By empowering people and giving them agency, leaders can help their teams experience hope in tangible ways.
Hope in Challenging Times
Even in the face of adversity, hope plays a crucial role. Consider how individuals with hope navigate health crises with fewer complications. This principle applies to church leadership as well. Offering hope to a community can lead to transformative experiences, redefining how communities perceive and respond to challenges.
Hope Matters
Hope is not just an abstract feeling but a powerful force that propels us into action and unites us around a shared vision. Leaders, be encouraged and guide your communities toward hope. Practice “nexting” to build a future filled with possibilities.
Let hope guide your actions and decisions. Remember, hope is contagious, and as leaders, you have the incredible opportunity to spread it far and wide.
Episodes in this Series
Episode 331: Cultivating Resilience Through Hope