Open Space write up (UK conference May-07)

Specific Topic How to avoid burnout

 

Overarching question How do we sustainably expand and support the network of communities working on transition?

Proceedings

  • Wait for others to become involved
  • Give others a chance to become involved
  • Let go as far as possible and stop owning the outcome (brings to mind the Ghandi doctrine - take the right action but don't attach yourself to the outcome)
  • Learn that it's OK to say "no". And saying "no" makes room for other things to happen
  • It's only sustainable if we ourselves are sustainable
  • Take small steps
  • Ask yourself:
    • "Am I enjoying this OR getting something from it?"
    • "Am I looking after myself and others?" - and be willing to ask this question of other people
    • "Are there any issues that I'm not addressing that are draining me?"
  • Acknowledge that "I can change myself, others change themselves, and something comes out of this work"
  • Set out on the path, even though you don't have all the answers or know where it's going to lead
  • Trust the process...
  • Understand that the project/process is not just yours, it's (already) everyone's
  • Take time to share what you can take from your involvement to balance with what you give over the long term
  • Ensure the model has practical aspects that makes other people want to be involved
  • There will be an initiator at the beginning and this is a legitimate part of the process
  • Don't be afraid to ask - for anything
  • Use this phrase, "Wouldn't it be great if..." and see who steps up
  • Failure is not a disaster
  • Recommended book: Paul Loam - Soul of a Citizen
  • Recognise that even small acts can be incredibly powerful
  • Take some down time
  • Avoid "too much yes at the centre", and don't be afraid to say no
  • Ask yourself what positive nurturing is being done for me
  • Remember that celebration is important (part of the "dream, plan, do, celebrate" cycle from John Croft's Dragon Dreaming
  • Empower and train up others - it's doing them a favour, and it's your responsibility
  • Bring your partner into the project, and others you know
  • Slower can be better
  • Don't act on all ideas right away - a good wine needs time to breath
  • A project has a life of its own, it's not just the people