I’m all a flutter. Thoughts are continually whizzing around my mind; ideas popping like firecrackers on new year’s eve. A slow churning of subtle excitement and anticipation – a few nerves too – accompanies me during the day. And keeps me awake at night (well, one night so far, if I’m honest!)
What’s going on, you may well ask…
Nothing earth-shattering nor particularly monumental. I volunteered to be part of my local teachers’ association. The difference this time (I’ve been on the committee team before) is that my role is to chair the group. My experience of those who have gone before gives me a great sense of responsibility. It is a role which requires management and leadership; commitment to doing the best for the association members. It requires creativity and forward-thinking; clear and transparent communication between committee team members and the wider membership.
I’m also discovering, fortunately in the early stages, it also requires patience and an understanding of the nature of the people who make up the membership. It requires me to “hold my horses”!
As a person who thrives on new ideas, looking for different ways of doing things, being creative and getting things done, I have to avoid riding roughshod over others. Thank goodness the chair is but one person among a group of bright, intelligent, knowledgeable people. People who hold a gentle restraining hand on me, while supporting other ideas with enthusiasm and willingness.
Personally, it is disconcerting and frustrating for me when I hear cautious voices. Those who question my ideas and present an alternative perspective. On one level, I understand the importance and validity of those voices; doesn’t stop me from feeling annoyed, irritated and frustrated, though!
Feeling a certain way about something is OK – I firmly believe. It’s how we deal with those feelings that is important. As I want this experience to be a personal developmental one, I set myself the challenge of behaving like an “adult” (those who familiar with transactional analysis will know what I mean!).
So, I will continue to indulge my penchant for idea storming. Then I will listen to those around me and accept that not all of my ideas will be possible to implement. I will value the judgment and wisdom of my team and work on mutually agreeable solutions. I will hold my horses back for a certain amount of time.
Do I sound like a Chairperson yet? I’m really looking forward to doing positive, useful and interesting things with – and for – ELTAS. I will keep an eye on my passion while not allowing it to be dampened too much.
There now, there’s that churning excitement in the pit of my stomach. Potential, I love it. The start of something new and improved. Let’s see what the team and I achieve together.
I’ll keep you posted!
