Stepping up to the plate in 2017

Sometimes we’re asked to step up and take responsibility for doing something that feels difficult.  An example would be where you are asked to take on a professional trustee role for a client. 
 
While we may feel obliged, we do have the freedom of choice.  We can either say yes, or no. 
 
A decision to accept a position of responsibility is often about doing the right thing.  While it’s normal to have doubts and uncertainties, these can be times of personal growth and learning.
 
American author Seth Godin has written about the link between freedom and responsibility. 
 
As he puts it, freedom is the ability to set your schedule, to decide on the work you do and to make decisions.  On the other hand, responsibility is about being accountable for your actions.
 
He goes on to say that freedom and responsibility aren't given, they're taken. 
 
In other words, when we step up to the plate and agree to take something on, not only are we choosing to act, we're also choosing to take responsibility for our actions. 
 
Stepping up to the plate is also about being able to act when an opportunity presents itself.
 
One such opportunity for professional trustees is the new Trusts Act which is expected to be introduced later in 2017.  The new Act will lift the bar on standards for trusteeship and professional trustees have a window of opportunity to get their house in order.
 
That may mean choosing to exit unrewarding appointments, or figuring out what’s needed to put things on a proper footing for others going forward.   For many it will probably involve a bit of both.
 
Whatever decision’s required, it will often mean stepping up to the plate to address things that may not have been done as well as they could have been in the past. 
 
Practically, how should professional trustees do that?  If you’re time poor, what simple strategies will improve commercial value, lower risk and deliver better outcomes for professional trustees?
 
Later this month, in association with Connectworks, I’m presenting my thoughts on ways professional trustees can respond to these challenges.
 
The seminars are in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch and you can get more information here.
 
Trust good practice.

Lindsay

Trustee Support Ltd