As the fog lifts
on this lazy Wednesday morning, I look around at my colleagues; it seems as
though a figurative fog is lifting from their minds as well. Steps are lighter,
smiles and wider, and conversations are revolving around topics other than
work. How did we accomplish this, you may ask? -- A social club. Yes, a simple
Friday afternoon social club. Such a seemingly minimal thing to do with my work
mates, I was not expecting the gathering to have such a rapid and positive
impact upon our lives in the workplace. It began with a suggestion- “let’s get
to know each other”. Funny- I’ve been working with these individuals for nearly
5 years, and I still feel as though I do not truly know them. Yes, I know the
subjects which they teach, the students they work with, and their order from
the neighbourhood Starbucks, but I do not really “know” them. The intention of my suggestion was simply to
start a conversation around our hobbies and interests outside of work, but what
conspired was a great deal of meaningful, rich, and genuine connection.
Positive
connections within the workplace not only add to our enjoyment of the everyday
task of work, but they increase the empathy which we feel for those around us.
I have made new connections with my colleagues, which has increased my own
ability to see the work day through a different lens. It has allowed me to say,
with genuine positive regard, “how are you doing today?” We care about the
well-being of one another, more so than we did before our Friday afternoon
social. These positive connections have not only increased my enjoyment at
work, but have decreased the negative haze of the workplace which I have become
so used to. Communication has become pro-active- if an issue comes about, we
have become more comfortable to discuss it directly with those involved. This
has become a goal which all of my colleagues have set: positive and pro-active
communication. I would encourage all of you set a goal as a group with your
work colleagues. Check back to discover how this group goal which we have set
has added to our environment!
Submitted by Annelie Nilsson, October, 2014
Graduate Intern at Shanti Counselling Centre
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