As 2010 draws to a close, I'm reflecting on what there is to celebrate and what I've learned. I'm celebrating being part of a community full of committed, talented and passionate people. I'm also celebrating the diversity of experiences I have had in work and life and the many rich lessons I've learned along the way. Here are a few "Lessons from the Field" that I found particularly valuable in 2010.
"An ounce of practice is worth more than ten tons of preaching." Mahatma Gandhi
The team members reflected on what was happening and realized that they were not "being the change" they hoped to make in the organization. They recognized that they could play a pivotal role by practicing the behaviors they expected of others. In the next workshop, they began sharing their own experiences and perspectives about race, class, gender, sexual orientation and other differences. They then began to notice a difference in the group dynamics. Once people saw the value in this type of dialogue, others began to engage. Soon, they were having substantive dialogue and using communication tools they had learned. They respectfully shared and listened to very different views about controversial issues. It was sometimes uncomfortable and things didn't always go smoothly, which leads to the second lesson...
"One of the advantages of being disorderly is that one is constantly making exciting discoveries." A.A. Milne
"When I dare to be powerful - to use my strength in the service of my vision, then it becomes less and less important whether I am afraid." Audre Lorde
3. There is tension in creativity. I often remind myself that tension is a natural and very useful part of a creative process. In one organization, staff members recognized that their tendency to avoid conflict got in the way of full self-expression and dialogue. People in leadership made a concerned effort to begin expressing their concerns more openly, using communication tools and guidelines they were learning. This new behavior required a willingness to take risks was sometimes uncomfortable and upsetting. Their willingness to experience tension had many beneficial results. The organization has since made exciting advances in their programs, services and staffing and is a much more dynamic place to work.
In closing, I hope you find some value in the lessons I've shared. I wish you a peaceful and happy winter season and much joy and creative discovery in the new year!Note to readers: I hope you enjoyed reading my blog. If you find this information useful and want to share it with others for purposes of learning (not for profit), please feel free to do so. Please acknowledge Mayeno Consulting and include my web address if you pass it on to others. Thanks!
I invite you to Email me at laurin@mayenoconsulting.com with topics that come up in your work. As a special incentive, I will provide 3 hours of free consultation to organizations that send me "Dear Laurin" letters that I use for future commentaries.
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