Life is hard!
Faith can be hard!
Leadership is hard!

Which is why we're not supposed to do it alone?

John Wesley once said, "The Bible knows nothing of solitary religion."

He's right! We were created for community and co-operation.

But I’ve discovered that the following three relationships are vital if we’re going to thrive—not just survive… or dive!

1. Who are you learning from?
   We all need people from whom we’re learning—call them a spiritual director, mentor, or coach. This is someone further ahead in life, faith, or leadership, whom you’re intentionally committed to learning from, with a regular rhythm of connection over an agreed timeframe.
   
   For me, I’ve had a spiritual director for over 15 years. We meet 5–6 times a year, and I know he’s always available online if I need to reach out.
   
   Beyond that, there have been times I’ve heard someone speak at a conference or event and thought, “I’d really benefit from just having a coffee with them—or even spending a few sessions together.” It’s about savouring each moment as an opportunity for learning and growth.
    
2. Who are you doing life with?
   We need people we’re doing life with—you might call them soul friends or accountability partners.
   
   These are 2–3 people with whom you’ve made a mutual commitment to be completely transparent and vulnerable. People who have your back—and you have theirs. People who will love you, pray for you, celebrate with you, weep with you, challenge you, and ask the hard questions that help you stay aligned with your values and calling.
   
   Jesus’ stepbrother James writes, “Confess your sins to one another that you may be healed” (James 5:16).
   
   I’m incredibly thankful for two guys in my life I connect with daily. We read Scripture, reflect together online, pray for one another, and make a point to meet up every couple of months. That consistent connection keeps me grounded.
    
3. Who are you leading?
   We need people we’re leading—this could be colleagues we’re working alongside or others we’re discipling. How are we intentionally making time to help others grow in their followership and leadership, appreciating that these conversations sharpen us too?

If you're lacking in any of them, then let me encourage you to pray, look and ask. You won't regret it, and it might just save your life!

Cheering and praying for you as you press on,