The Leadership Blog by Ann Vanino

I found an interesting web site today: The Workplace Bullying Institute. I am so glad that this concept of workplace bullying is getting attention. On the website there is an announcement of Freedom from Bullies Week: A Week for Support, Inspiration, Peace & Health October 19 – 25, 2008. The purpose of the week is to practice different strategies to overcome indifference to the plight of over 54 million Americans who endure bullying at work on a routine basis. By raising the awareness of those affected by workplace bullying and validating their feelings, they can then regain their power. No one has to endure workplace bullying. I hope we are seeing the beginning of its end.

Several roads are currently converging on my journey and creating exciting opportunities. There is a movement underway to merge the country’s need for renewable energy sources with the desire to provide opportunities that lift people out of poverty. By combining this need and desire, we can train unemployed youth and adults to work in the renewable energy sector – wind, solar, alternative fuels. This is something I want to be part of. I’m ready – with years of experience in the environmental field, coaching skills and a passion to help out of school youth find fulfilling careers.

Look for more to come on using the green revolution to lift people out of poverty!

There’s a lot of uncertainty in the world right now. I’ve had people say to me that we are in chaos and they are uncomfortable with that. What is chaos? One definition of chaos is: the confused, unorganized condition or mass of matter before the creation of distinct and orderly forms. There are two things to look at in this definition: “confused unorganized condition” and “before creation of distinct and orderly forms”.

A futile response to chaos is to try to control it.  Chaos is motion and you cannot pause it. If you lose your bearings, irrational actions or emotions can send you further into chaos. The negatives of the situation are then compounded.

The ability to deal with uncertainty brings freedom. Change is constant. If you accept that life will change, you can make the best of it. A static life eventually would be dull and boring. Develop ways to deal effectively with change and even chaos. One way is to view chaos as allowing the opportunity for creativity and growth.

There are many things in our world that need changing. Look at the chaos that is happening in the world now. If the chaos were to bring change, what changes would you like to see? What opportunities for creativity and growth are available to us now?

Joy is part of life
Joy and leading hand-in-hand
Seek joy as you lead

This week shook things up a bit. The economy is not looking very steady and we are surrounded by uncertainty. In the midst of it all, you have a choice: to let the chaos take you or to be steady as you go. It is scary sitting in the unknown, but that is where we are. You can delude yourself that you have control over what happens, but you do not. All you can control is yourself – your state of mind, your actions, your emotions and your faith.

Keep your head through all of this. Going into fear is a huge detour on your path. It has no advantage. Acceptance of what is and faith in yourself will see you through. Look for silver linings. Nurture yourself if your stress level rises. Find comfort in doing things you love. Remember the saying, “this too will pass”.

Change is a powerful force that also brings good. How can this economic downturn make your life better? Not at all? Think again –you’ll find something. What is the source of your inner knowing and strength? Find it.

Be well during these times and be steady as you go.