Spring in Bloom

I am writing this note, having just finished a mountain bike ride in full bloom. The wildflowers of North Central Washington are on full display, balsam root, lupin, yarrow, and phlox, all competing for the most spectacular presentation. It was beautiful! Beauty and art may be the best representation of “why” we exist. Success, achievement, fame and fortune may best describe “what” we do, and the details of our lives tell us “how” we do it. The creative process of art, music, literature, and the natural world around us provides wonder and awe and hints towards some sense of meaning.

Creativity and our search for beauty can also be part of our day-to-day work life. In the relationships we cultivate with our team and our peers. For example, what if, instead of a perfunctory, information only, department meeting, you created a forum to discuss an issue that was important to your team, impactful to your customers and relevant to your organization. What if that meeting included meaningful input from everyone on the team. All feeling safe to contribute, without fear of disrespect or retaliation. What if the result of that discussion was a plan of action that all were willing to support and be accountable for. That would be a masterpiece, despite the outcome of your plan. You have created a venue for trust, empowerment, and engagement. Your team is getting stronger. That is a thing of beauty.