Bootstrapping my ministry was less about doing what other big ministries were doing in the hopes of becoming like them and more about focusing on leveraging what I did have to grow to the next level (in relation to leaders–size and quality, laborers, and loot).
I recently had a conversation with another ministry starter about fundraising with limited time and energy. We both agreed it was hard but looking back on my last five years leading a ministry I would say I wasted lots of time worrying about raising money instead of leveraging the resources I did have (time, people to do the ministry, and advisers to consult the ministry)–which most likely would have led to raising money.
The Bootstrapper’s Bible by Seth Godin is a great set of slides to encourage you if you starting a ministry. You will have to do some translating as it targets businesses but there are plenty of gems in there.
Here are quotes from the opening manifesto:
“I am a bootstrapper. I have initiative and insight and guts, but not much money…I keep my focus on growing the business–not on politics, career advancement, or wasteful distractions…
I will be a fervent and intelligent user of technology, to conserve my two most precious assets: time and money.
My secret weapon is knowing how to cut through bureaucracy. My size makes me faster and more nimble than any company could ever be.”
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