Bridging Lives Notes: June 2016

Fight Less / Play More
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What are you looking forward to, now that we’re half way through the year?

Just as nature is in full bloom around us, surely you have things to celebrate from what you’ve created so far.

Facing into what’s before you, how might you need to pivot in order to fulfill your promise for growth?

“Since we cannot change reality, let us change the eyes that see reality.”
Niko Kazantzakis

Choosing to pivot means shifting your primary orientation to something. You can adjust your mindset, behavior or something about your environment. This is especially helpful when you’re dealing with some critical learning experience that requires a new approach to adversity or diversity.
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In your experience, what’s the difference between peak performance and high performance? If you’re driving hard for either, consider for a moment what would feel more sustainable, promoting greater agility and resilience. I offer “fight less / play more” for the possibility of unblocking something.

When we’re “wrapped around the axle,” there’s precious little space to interact with creative thinking and receptivity to new ideas. We get “locked in” to certain modes of thinking, feeling and behaving that literally de-activate our capacity for learning and being at our best. Curiosity gives way to false certainty, which then strangles off co-creative and collaborative possibility.

So how do you “play more” when the stakes are high?

First, check in with your inner orientation. Second, take another look at the language and metaphors you use. We activate and coordinate action through language and in conversation. Would you like to know how to up-regulate your conversations and capacity to co-create with others? Stay tuned I’ll share more about that next time.

For now, let’s play with metaphors we use for creating excellent results together. How often do you use metaphors rooted in fighting – e.g. military or competitive team sports? Those metaphors effectively activate a threat response, propelling action to dominate, protect, and defend. What other metaphors could you use? How about referencing an ecosystem for growth and change? Or an ensemble, like a group of musicians working together to create music. Even in a “battle of the bands,” the best result is great music and a positive experience that brings people together. What might happen if you shifted the primary metaphors you use for creating collaborative excellence?
Where True Collaboration Begins
Here’s a link from a recent performance of the Mill Valley Philharmonic in which I play as a violist. This is one way I experience ensemble and “play more.”

Here’s a link for “Where True Collaboration Begins.” I gave this coaching tool to conference participants in March when I gave a keynote presentation on “Changing Our Minds About Conflict.” I offer it to you now in support of what you’re creating on the path before you.
You Are the Bridge to “better”
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For the work that's yours to do, you are the bridge to "better." Thank you for the important work you do and the leader you're becoming while you do it. I'm here as your ally, partnering with you to thrive.

Be in touch...and stay tuned!
Warmly,
Beata
Lead. Collaborate. Grow. ... to Thrive!
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