Ideally, the ground work has already been established. The strong relationships that were founded when we had the opportunity for regular, face-to-face interactions will still exist. But even in those instances, new demands on our days might lead to some neglect of these strong ties. There is a tendency to assume that those who we feel "jut know" that we are here to support them may not need as much contact. But the overwhelming "new-ness" of our current state has a destabilizing effect on everyone.
Establishing connections with individuals who are new to our organizations is even more challenging. As social creatures, we rely a great deal on "in-person" interactions. As such, establishing strong professional relationships via email, even video-conferencing, can be significantly more challenging.
In previous posts, I've shared what I believe to the be the essential elements of a successful school community (Five Essential Elements of a Successful School Community). I would suggest that these elements are even more essential during this time of distance learning. But with the complication of physical distance and a myriad of new obstacles, we need to be even more intentional in our approach.
Here are a few new understandings that I've come to;
1. Everything takes more time. With irregular schedules and less reliable methods of communication, I have learned to be patient, extending timelines for myself and others. Tasks that previously would have taken a few minutes, can now extend to days, even weeks. Operating on "old" timelines is unrealistic and stress invoking. We will all get there, eventually.
2. Everyone is feeling stressed and anxious. To varying degrees, each of us is operating in a new and challenging context. For many of us, we have shifted from a somewhat predictable and routine schedule to a very new reality. Our work days have likely taken on new hours. Our working environments look remarkably different. And our future is uncertain. I have learned that this constant state of stress and anxiety impacts each of us differently, and to be mindful of this in my interactions with others.
3. Relationships are more important than ever. Related to my first two points, I now "build in" time just to chat. While taking this time can be challenging with looming deadlines and numerous tasks to complete, I try to prioritize the person over the objective. Intentionally building in this time to connect and discuss topics that may be unrelated to the task at hand is ultimately more effective than trying to barge ahead with an agenda. Those few moments can provide valuable insight and understanding.
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| Relationships are more important than ever. |
