Monday, August 08, 2005

Let It Begin With You

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Being The Change At Your Workplace

No matter where you work, chances are there's room for improvement. Let change begin with you. No matter what your position is, you can be the catalyst for positive change in your workplace.

Let your employer or supervisor know that you'd be interested in organizing teams to enhance the work environment. Most employers will be open to this because it doesn't cost them anything. Talk about what changes you feel would benefit the company. Have a plan of action to present how positive changes such as fund raising, neighborhood clean up, or group yoga, could easily be instituted.

Going "green" is easier than most people think. Advocate for the use of natural cleaning products and the use of recycled materials at your workplace. Many places already have recycling programs, but if yours doesn't, it's easy to start one. Volunteer to be in charge of arranging for the pick up of paper, cardboard, cans, and bottles. Then set out marked containers for each item. This is all that most people need to cooperate in a recycling program. Also, look into programs that recycle computers and printer cartridges.

Encourage community involvement by starting food, clothing, and toy drives. Get walk teams together to fund raise for the many charity walks that happen several times a year. Enjoy fresh air and get some exercise during lunch by gardening and picking up trash around the neighborhood. You might even get together a group of volunteers to tutor children or start a mentor program at your work. Not only will you and your co-workers be giving back to your community, but you'll be building team spirit for a better work environment.

Working conditions are enhanced by creating a family atmosphere. Organize monthly potluck lunches or if your work place has a kitchen, take turns cooking. Encourage "veggie" lunches once a week. Instead of coffee breaks, lead your co-workers in yoga breaks, group walks, or a ten minute meditation.

Even if you can't implement big changes, you can be the positive change in your work place with your attitude of peace and cooperation. Start with small improvements and watch the joy spread. Be the change.

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1 comment:

Tutor Mentor Connections said...

Thanks for the positive encouragement. I became a volunteer in a workplace mentoring program more than 30 years ago and it has totally changed the direction that my live has taken since then.

Now I lead an organization that seeks to help volunteer based tutor/mentor programs grow in all poverty neighborhoods of Chicago. Through the Internet we'll providing information that is used all over the world. I hope that some of your readers do step forward to start volunteer-based tutor/mentor programs. The benefits to the youth and the adults are unimaginable. The grow over time.

If folks need ideas for tutor/mentor programs they can visit http://msg.uc.iupui.edu/TMC/html/index.php

Dan Bassill
Tutor/Mentor Connection