INNER WORK
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inner work . One of the independent schools we work with , which has been investing intentionally in this work for a couple of years , faced a significant crisis this past fall . Most organizations when facing a challenge go into self-protective mode , engaging lawyers , limiting communication , and trying to get back to “ business as normal .” This school , however , did the opposite : they met with families and community leaders , doubled their investment of time in creating space for grief work and healing , considered how they had co-created the issue , and listened deeply to families , faculty , and each other . As a result , new partnerships were formed , systems were shifted , and trust was deepened . A crisis that could have spiraled out of control became a catalyst for learning and connection , which they credit to the inner work they had been cultivating .
Throughout the pandemic , this school has continued to invest in inner work . The senior leadership team engages in spaces for reflection and processing fears and grief . They communicate openly with each other , hold space for each other to process , and have high levels of personal responsibility when it comes to co-creating their school environment and culture . This past spring semester , they ensured all staff and faculty had access to spaces for connection , reflection , processing , and grief . They scheduled regular sessions for restorative spaces , healing , and opportunities for community connection . Tears were shed , laughter was shared , and participants said they felt more connected , seen , and understood than ever before .
“ We find in our research that most organizations , even those who believe they are effectively engaging their constituents , are struggling with communication , engagement , and trust , now more than ever .”
Because this school has a holistic approach to inner work , the institution has become increasingly agile . Recognizing this summer posed a threat to employees and families feeling connected , they developed new summer programming for those who wanted to stay engaged and sent regular , transparent communication to all members of their community . While these steps may seem simple , we find in our research that most organizations , even those who believe they are effectively engaging their constituents , are struggling with communication , engagement , and trust , now more than ever . This school has imbued inner work into the DNA of their culture and , therefore , these actions are authentic and resonant .
The majority of organizations don ’ t realize that the “ issues ” they are navigating , e . g . interpersonal issues , grievances , disengagement , are a direct product of institutional trauma never addressed or healed from .
Page 14 Fall 2020 CSEE Connections