How many times do I need to repeat myself before the concept sticks?

This is a question I wrestle with as a Church leader. I often find myself repeating the same information over and over. Sometimes, it is the basics of the faith. Other times, it is the mission of the Church. Frequently, it is about upcoming events.

Recently, I heard a Church leader say, “Repeat yourself until you are tired of saying it, and that is when most people are just starting to catch on.”

I know there is truth to his statement because of the nature of people. Sometimes, when I say something while people are absent, other times, they are distracted. Occasionally, people hear it, but they immediately forget it for a number of reasons. Quite often, they only hear part of what I say and miss significant parts of my comments.

So, if you think you have heard me say something a thousand times, then great, my words are not for you. Instead, I am telling them to that person who didn’t hear them last time. Don’t think that I am forgetful or going senile. I am merely trying to get everyone to understand, and sometimes, it takes repeating myself a thousand times for it to stick.