I know you've seen them too. The large number of anonymous posts on youth ministry Facebook groups looking for insight on how to handle isolation in ministry. Sometimes it's an internal loneliness, a feeling that, "Nobody gets me and if I talk to anyone about this, I will lose credibility."
Other times, it's an external loneliness. As many as 70% of pastors cannot identify a close personal friend.* In those feelings of loneliness, rather than seeking out relationships we tend to slink into isolation and a mindset that says, "I'm the only one."
Friend, you are not alone.
Don't Buy Into The Lie of Loneliness
#1 GET WITH JESUS
Find some form of a consistent time and place to hit pause on all the stuff, pray, journal, worship, and get in the word. Not in preparation for whatever is next on your ministry calendar, but in an effort to connect with your Creator.
#2 GET A MENTOR
Someone who is further down the road than you in your areas of struggle. It doesn't have to be a seasoned pastor, but it could be.
#3 GET IN A NETWORK
I use "network" very broadly here. What I would push you toward is to find a small group of other youth ministry leaders where you can be known and get to know others who "get it." An area gathering, a group text with college buddies. An online coaching or cohort program.
Use NNYM's lookup tool to find a youth ministry network group in your local area. If you don't have clear options, reach out. I host a free online cohort experience for youth ministry leaders. You aren't meant to do ministry alone; we are here for you.
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Derry Prenkert is devoted to coaching, consulting, and caring for starting, stuck, and struggling youth pastors in his role with Standing Stone Ministry. Derry hosts Youth Ministry Leader Cohort and has authored numerous resources through Download Youth Ministry.
*The Fuller Institute, George Barna, Lifeway, Schaeffer Institute of Leadership Development, and Pastoral Care Inc.