Group and Project Work at CD 1
I have not had the opportunity to participate in any team or group projects in my professional setting. I have certainly participated in overall program improvements but never any projects with a specific goal or timeline. I have, however, had the opportunity to participate in a training group this past summer at a Conscious Discipline training. At the beginning of the Conscious Disciple CD 1 training, a week-long 43 hour CD training, we were seated randomly. I was seated with a group of people I had never met. There were teachers from all over the nation at our table of eight. None of us knew one another but by the end of the week we were all friends!
The week began with introductions and required interactive activities. These were conducted in the normal, tentative manner typical of people that do not know one another and have not built trust. By days two and three, we began to work together, talk, and learn about each other's professional lives. By day four, we were opening up about our personal lives. By day five, we were a little disappointed at having to do activities with other groups.
My colleagues were in different groups that were not getting along as well. As a result, their learning experience was greatly affected, and they expressed concern at dinner each evening with their group leader's ability to conduct inclusive conversations and interactions. The leader of my group was quite adept at including everyone and making each of us feel as though we were valuable contributors to the conversation.
As we adjourned our group after seven days together, we had a photo made with the training instructor, we went to lunch together, and created a Facebook group where we can all still communicate about our CD journey. We also made sure we took plenty of photos and exchanged contact information. The likelihood that we will see one another again is not great as we live in different states. However, we still keep in touch via social media and email. I believe that these types of connections are made for a reason and it is important to maintain them to the best of our ability.
As we progress through our journey for our Masters, there are many of you that I hope to meet in person. I genuinely enjoy discussions and blogs with each of you and I look forward to a face-to-face conversation!