Dear Friend,
Do you yearn to experience meaningful work?
Fulfilling this aspiration calls for discovering ways we can be of service, and learning the skills to be more effective.
In my view, the opportunities presented at work to grow and develop ourselves are as much a part of finding fulfilling work as the nature of the organization that writes our paycheck. The process of professional development -- learning how to grow into the fullest expression of our professional role -- is a lifelong pursuit, best integrated into our daily work activities.
Focusing on the lessons right in front of me at work, I have gained many personal and professional insights. These experiences, taken to heart, have created a deeper connection to my life’s path and helped improve my ability to positively affect the lives’ of others.
Join me on this exploration -- we can all learn from one another. I appreciate hearing about your insights, stumbling blocks and successes along the way, and I promise to share mine.
All the best,
In this issue:
- Feature Article: Graceful Negotiation
- Call to Action
Graceful Renegotiation
| At the beginning of the year, fresh ideas, projects, and plans inspire us. A less appealing, but critical task, is facing that which will be displaced by our new intentions. Dedicated professionals tend to add more and more to their plates each year with well-intentioned initiatives. At some point, it becomes apparent that we can't actually accomplish all we intended. Gracefully handling the difficult communications needed to adjust and clarify realistic expectations is an application of our deepest values in the workplace.
Renegotiation was an important issue for me in 2005 and will certainly continue to be in 2006. After experiencing some health issues, I have struggled to accept myself as someone who does less. My work days are shorter and don't extend into evenings and weekends. I nap. And yet, I have also found that in many ways I am achieving more. By strategically selecting what I am willing to take on, outsourcing (personally and professionally) and entrusting others to do more, I have been able to make headway on many fronts even though I am personally spending less time working than ever before. The first person I needed to renegotiate with in this process was myself. For many years I have pushed myself hard. The manic pace was no longer sustainable, yet was habitual. I associated the fast pace with “Who I am” and “How my life is”. I had literally forgotten it could be any other way. At what point did I allow myself to acknowledge this? Not at the first sign, or the second, but when my body said, “No more.” Gradually, I have cut back, and become more and more comfortable letting opportunities pass. I have begun to enjoy the additional spaciousness in my days. Sometimes, we need to renegotiate our commitments to preserve our professional and personal integrity. Unexpected events, limits stretched too far, or demanding new projects prompt us to reconsider our commitments. Using creative approaches, it may be possible to complete what we originally intended. There are many excellent resources about being more organized, efficient, and productive, which I heartily recommend. However, there are instances when cramming more in is not the answer. The very complex process of evaluating your priorities, capabilities, and commitments can take different forms. Whatever way you choose to approach the process, consider the following steps on your way to a renegotiated situation that leaves all parties whole and able to move forward. You may wish to select a situation you are unlikely, or unwilling, to complete as originally designed as you read through the following steps. Identify the need. Some people are reluctant to realize when a change is needed. They continue to uphold awkward and painful agreements long after they could have renegotiated them. In this stage, it is important to come to terms with what is authentically working or not working for you. This is the time to jettison notions that what works for others should work for you. Instead, identify your true needs. You may want to ask yourself the following questions:
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A Call to Action
If we listen, we receive many hints from our body, our mind, or other people who tell us that it is time to stop doing all the things we think we must do. This is your cue to start practicing graceful renegotiation --- for your benefit as well as for those around you.
In the following weeks, notice what signs you are receiving from yourself and others. Are there some tasks you feel compelled or driven to do even though they drain you of energy and joy? Identify a handful of items you would like to stop doing. Then go to work on renegotiating at least one.
Fulfilling Work is
produced by
Integrated Work Strategies, LLC
6672 Gunpark Drive Ste 100
Boulder, CO 80301
www.integratedwork.com