MILT'S RULES
The late Milton Engebretson was the president of the Evangelical Covenant Church in the 1970's and early 80's. He was a great guy with a contagious personality and an open door. When I was at North Park Seminary for a year he met with a bunch of us students and shared his "rules for administration" -- which I've had on a bulletin board by my desk. I might phrase a few of these things a little differently but on a whole they are pretty solid words of advice -- even 20 years later.

1. Devise a workable plan for any operation including its desired objective.

2. Follow through to see that the plan is worked until completed.

3. Delete the word "discouragement" from your vocabulary.

4. Never engage in indecision or regret.

5. Give each staff person, especially in high offices, the freedom to do his/her job his/her way.

6. Handle every controversy, discipline or remonstration face-to-face. Do not put uncomplimentary or scolding words in writing.

7. Give glory when and to whom it is due. Never fail on this.

8. Reduce all plans, orders and programs to the simplest form possible.

9. Be positive at all times.