Noticing – When Opportunity Knocks

What I have come to notice is that when you are actively involved in creating the type of world you want to live in (i.e. choosing, speaking your truth, living authentically) opportunities arise out of day to day living.

I of course and speaking in part with my invitation that was extended to my a few weeks ago at the Local Presidents Conference to be here in Ottawa for the Informal Conflict Management System (ICMS Program) Workshop.

When I originally received the invitation I was honoured and elated with the opportunity, for two reasons:

a) The offer was not an offer to sneeze at; in that meeting are people who are major ‘stakeholders’ in our department (although I would challenge that every employee is a stakeholder).

b) The topic, the departmental ICMS program. Informal Conflict Management for me means Conflict Resolution, which is basically looking at productive ways to “hear” each other’s stories and points of view. It starts with being aware of the people you are interacting with, not only their language but also the other indicators that may be displayed. Being approachable, non confrontational and sincere, it will help ease a stress filled situation if someone knows they can simply talk to you and you will listen. So much of the time people just need to be heard… conflicts arise when people don’t know how to listen.

There are so many nuances that could be thrown into the mix when dealing with active listening and effective communicating, however it can be simplified by realizing everyone has something important to say whether you agree with it or not. By listening to them express them selves. Respecting them as individuals who have something valid and valuable to say. And remaining true to your self and your experiences you will be able to accomplish a lot.

Three very productive days spent in the National Capital Area, although I wasn’t worried that I would have anything to contribute during this workshop I was a little bit concerned with if people would hear me. I have left the sessions knowing that I have been heard and also perhaps opened up people’s views on who might have valuable input in the ‘decision making’ areas of our workplace.

I am sitting in the airport leaving Ottawa, with the promise of there being more. I’ll be having conversations next week with the National President to talk about other opportunities for me to sit on National Committees.

Life is good. There is always more, if you only allow yourself to be open and aware of it.