Sustaining Momentum After an Event [From 2009]

[This is a blog I wrote back in March of 2009. I did re-write most of the post to improve the quality of the writing.  At the time I had been at my current church for about 6 months. Tomorrow I will write a response to this blog.]


Momentum is created by doing something new or interesting. Events by their nature are outside of the ordinary cycle of ministry. Thus anytime you have a successful event, you create momentum.

Here are six suggestions for sustaining moment after a successful event:


1) Provide lots of videos and pictures of the event

People love to re-live great memories through pictures and videos. After every retreat/mission trip/event I post 100s of pictures and frequently make a recap video.


2) Make all video and pictures available to the participants

This enables people to share their experience with their friends.


3) Always have something exciting in the near future

After a successful event, people want more.  By having something people can look forward to, it gives people a target to look forward to. Their excitement for what just happened transfers into anticipation for what is next.


4) Carefully space out your events

Scheduling events too close together doesn't give you enough time to create great events, but leaving too much space between events creates lulls.  Be intentional about how you space out your events.


5) Keep focused on why you're doing what you're doing

As ministers we aren't event planners (though we plan events), we're disciples called to make disciples. Events are a means to an end. You must remember your actual purpose.


6) Remind people how far you've come doing what you're doing

Progress motivates people. Keep people motivated.