Not the End just the Beginning
I’ve decided to use the reflective questions I landed on to shape my week’s notes. Today’s our official last day with the Third Sector Lab’s Open Working Programme. I feel the excitement of a child who is about to graduate from a class with plans of how I’m going to use what I’ve learnt, but I’m also filled with sadness (I hate goodbyes with promises to keep in touch because it’s never the same, is it? Be real!)
Am I making progress?
From the time we were introduced to the concept of Open Working and where I am now; I love the way my thinking has changed over these months. Progress? Heck! It’s been an evolutionary moment in the life of Penelope. And I know this isn’t about me but it does mean that everything that I get involved in, the causes, the projects, the individual BME woman, I can help with continual improvement. That’s what this is really, isn’t it? We stop, take stock, and while we do that we are looking at improving what we do. Not rushing from A to B and then realising that we’ve rushed in the wrong direction. I love this because it ties in so well with my passion for quality. I’m also a big believer in continual improvement, not continuous improvement and week notes allow us to stop and reflect.
If it isn’t working what can I change
I’m thinking of things that don’t work for me with this way of working. And all that comes to mind is that I’m a little fixated on 10 am on a Friday being the “time” to write my week notes. Perhaps some flexibility in thinking is needed. But you know how that goes. If you’ve tried to stop eating chocolate you’ll understand what I mean. One nibble and the whole intention unravels.
What have I learnt?
It’s beautiful to share with the rest of the world how your work and your project are going along with everyday stuff which is something we cannot separate and by being open — warts and all, no one can be critical of the outcome. I mean, if you have been working hard on a project for 6 months and the boss sees the outcome 6 months later and they don’t like your work. You are going to feel a whole lot of negative emotions. If you had been practicing open working, the boss is more inclined to be appreciative because they have been privy to the sweat and tears along with the highs.
Keeping my eye on purpose
If I ever fall out of the habit of open working — I will remind myself of the purpose. To me, it’s about sharing and caring about our community. And having a vent, naming the doubts, being vulnerable.
Fun moments
The timers and the facilitation by Third Sector Lab have brought me much joy — it’s a challenge I’ve loved rising to.
Thanks Robyn!
