I’m the only Black person in a group. A fact usually less salient as my Blackness is generally accepted, acknowledged, and integrated into groups I choose. I distinguish genuine interest and awareness from performative or clueless interaction. So, I was discomfited by a group member’s appreciation in the closing … Read More
Leadership
Why Change Takes Time
In an organization explicitly shifting to a more appreciative and collaborative culture, a meeting participant positively interpreted challenging events. Let’s look at the upside and From an appreciative perspective were met with joshing incredulity from colleagues. Wait, you’re being positive? … Read More
Tags: Leadership, Organizational change
Sabbatical Lessons 2: From Rush to Reset
Spring 2021 is in full force. Redbud, dogwoods, and azaleas vie for attention. I return to a world that is the same and so different from when I began my sabbatical seven months ago. Then my FOMO (fear of missing … Read More
Tags: Leadership, Self-development
Sabbatical Lessons 1: Creating New Eyes
“We shall not cease from explorationAnd the end of all our exploringWill be to arrive where we startedAnd know the place for the first time.”T.S. Eliot After nearly 30 years in practice, I planned a break. The COVID-19 pandemic canceled … Read More
Tags: Leadership, Self-development
Focus and Balance in 2018
Well, that was a year! The assault on political institutions and norms, the additional suffering heaped needlessly on the already vulnerable, self-serving and self-dealing in the halls of power, are individually and collectively breathtaking. From agencies run by avowed antagonists … Read More
Tags: Leadership, Self-development, Social justice
Addressing Structural Racism—In the Moment
In a group addressing structural racism in organizational operations and programmatic work, we are reviewing proposals for action. A person of color notes some language used in otherwise sound ideas could unintentionally reinforce the separation the proposal seeks to address. … Read More
Spaciousness
While we’re at it, why don’t we also…? Before I leave for the next meeting, let me do just one more thing. I’ll skip the gym/art class/music performance/time with family and friends because I need to get these next three … Read More