Happy Monday, or whatever Monday you choose.
This week was incredible. I was very fortunate to be part of a unique employee experience; a giant competition, but also showcased camaraderie and teamwork. Novel situations can be overwhelming. You may be unsure of what to do or your role. It can be challenging to find direction. Imagine going to a foreign country and trying to navigate a spectacle. Who do you ask for help? Will they understand you or do you think you will be a burden? We have a culture of service and are encouraged to ask for help and rely on each other. As a recovering workaholic, I usually prefer to go it alone. Having my teammates cheer me on was a powerful sensation. At the end of the day, you have to be the one actually to perform, but a support mechanism will take you to unprecedented levels.
But, and there is always a but – asking for help is a sign of weakness. Not understanding your limits and setting boundaries can undermine your strength more than asking for help. If you are used to doing things a certain way, change can be difficult. I never liked to change. I was always kicking and screaming until the bitter end. I realized it was not working and created unnecessary mental drama. Change is uncomfortable, but if you stop fighting and lean into the discomfort, you will have the opportunity to grow. Do you like to always be in control? When you ask for assistance, you give up some of that control and become vulnerable. It is much easier to juggle all the balls in our lives with help. Many people were ready to give up. “I can’t do it.” Our group surrounded them with support and encouragement, and they were able to accomplish their goal. It was a wonderful feeling. Nothing is tastier than the fruits of your labor.
Have you ever been overstimulated? I was at a giant party, and at times it felt like too many people, too much sound, and too much motion. When I stopped fighting it and opened myself to it all something unique happened. I softened my focus and let the sensations flow. What sounds could I hear? Did I notice any feelings? What caught my eye? When I allowed myself just to be, everything quieted down. I found a pocket of peace amidst the chaos. A friend shared an observation that many of our colleagues found joy in the appreciation of simple things that most people take for granted. Maybe you are reading the blog this with your morning coffee or tea. Are you actually tasting it? How does it smell? Is it hot, or cold, or just right? Tap into your intuition. If your body or mind is screaming “uncle” do not be afraid to ask for help.
What’s next? Use the support you receive to believe in yourself. Our world is competitive. It is easy to give in to feelings of defeat because you are tired or in pain. When you allow others to help you, you will find unknown and untapped reservoirs. You can go further than you thought possible. The picture I choose for this week’s blog is from one of the competitions. I thought it perfectly encapsulated teamwork and individual performance. If you allow people to support you, you will be able to fly.
