I Want to Start a Movement: Relationships Matter

Most of us don’t get feedback on a regular basis; for many that ended with taking tests in school. Throughout our work day, we don’t expect to be told we are doing something well, we don’t expect to be told to change the way we do something, and let’s be honest, we aren’t really looking to make changes very often either!

Nonetheless, we know that we all have frustrations and would really like some tasks to be more successful, easier, or take less time to complete. We all have someone around us we would like to influence to make our work more suitable in some way, shape, or form.

So how do we go about creating an environment where we can get more of what we need and want? I believe it all starts with relationships, particularly those with your peers and immediate supervisors. Good relationships start with having conversations. We all need to have trust that we will be understood, we need to agree on the same outcome, and we need to see how we are joined together to bring about success.

Years ago, when I was a DSP, my team would meet every night after the children we supported were settled in bed, and we’d talk about our challenges. We reflected on what we did well and when we needed to shift our approach. I still remember those meetings as short, powerful reflections on our work. It didn’t require technology, but it did require humility, courage, and determination, which are all free and paperless.

Where can you start? Here are some questions to consider:

— In the last week, did you have conversations with a supervisor about your work?

— In the last week, did you thank anyone for something they did well?

— In the last week, did you talk with your supervisor about your goals?

— In the last week, did you ask a question about how to do something better?

Relationships matter. Let’s look for ways to make them a priority. Remember, a little effort goes a long way.