Last week I attended a conference in San Diego, California. It was a wonderful opportunity to network with other learning leaders, share best practices, attend insightful sessions and workshops, and listen to challenging keynotes – including one by Ben Cohen and Jerry Greenfield (co-founders of Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream) that introduced Stamp Stampede 2.0 focused on getting money out and voters in to American politics.
The experience inspired and challenged me; it also surprised me. As a first time attendee my first big surprise was just how frank Ben and Jerry were, especially about the changes they believe are needed to return American politics to the American people. My second big surprise came during the final session when my company was awarded one of the conference’s awards.
So What?
One year and one day after joining the healthcare company I currently work for and just under six months after assuming responsibility for leading our nationwide learning initiatives, I was on stage receiving an award for creativity in training. This success was possible only because of the great team that works for and with me alongside all of the company’s employees’ commitment to learn and grow. It was, however, also a reminder of a core part of my identity: creative.
Shortly after receiving the award, I posted a picture on Facebook of a colleague and I holding the trophy we were presented with some thoughts ending with the words “Thankful to lead a creative, innovative, and FUN learning team.” In response I received several public comments as well as some private words of congratulations. Two of the public replies were:
We won’t forget and we do miss your innovative approach to just about everything.
&
Just not so surprised, my creative, innovative friend!
Whether training folks on healthcare, religion, or following the Way of Jesus, I am committed to doing my very best, which will always include an element of creativity.
- What is one of the most creative ways you ever learned something of significance? something that challenged and/or changed your faith understanding or enhanced your faith journey?
- What is one core element of your identity that others see manifested in your personal and professional endeavors? How do you ensure this part of yourself isn’t muted or lost among everything else?
Note: For a very different experience read about the only other time I received a surprise award as a first-time conference attendee.