Competence Will Be Rewarded with More Work

When I started my job at The Academy of the Holy Cross, I worked hard. In order for me to come on board the job was changed from part-time 9-month to full-time 12-month and the addition of marketing and communications was added to the recruitment/admissions job description. It was important that I gave the school its money’s worth, so there were many long days and nights and I volunteered for anything that needed more hands. It wasn’t long after this that I had a conversation with a colleague who informed me that the more I work, the more work I will be allowed to do - “Competence is rewarded with more work…”

As I’ve gotten involved in Scouting, which is dominated by volunteer support, this sentiment has become more apparent in my life. It all started when I began looking for other boys to join my son’s Cub Scout den… “Hey, you should be the Den Leader,” said the Cubmaster... Seven years later and a page full of different Scouting “jobs” reveals that I have embraced the “more work” lifestyle. As I look around at my fellow Scout colleagues, I realize that they have all been rewarded for their competence with more opportunities to work. The running joke among Scout leaders is that we can’t say no. There’s just so much work to be done. And so few who step up to share the load.

“If you want something done, ask a busy person to do it!” That’s another phrase that seems to bear truth in Scouting. I know very few leaders who do one job in scouting. Burnout can be a problem. Most of the time people that I know (and include myself in the mix) just don’t want to miss out on the opportunity to give the youth an experience that will positively impact their lives. “If I don’t help the boys will lose out” has played in my mind more than once.

I recognize that to some extent this attitude is misguided. As I take on more jobs, I take on more stress that keeps me from enjoying the experience less and less. I’m also removing the possibility that another parent will have the joy of being involved and making a difference in their child’s life (as well as others). I’m possibly taking away the chance that another leader will start on a path that has included for me the opportunity to work with some amazing youth and outstanding adult leaders who have become great friends. And the fun I’ve had along the way – there’s no way to measure it.

The trick is to find the balance. I’ve known scout leaders who have had their marriages jeopardized by their Scouting commitments. One told me that his wife told him to choose her or Scouting (Yikes!). My daughter told me she “hated Wood Badge.” I knew that’s when I needed to dial it back and take a break (of course those of you who know my daughter also know she has a flair for the dramatic). A good friend and fellow scout leader suggested that the key is to say yes to the things you will enjoy and know you want to do and say no to the things you won’t. And not feel guilty about it. Period.

Good advice…