Change is indeed the only constant in life. There are times in our life when we feel the need to make changes, then there are times when we don’t want to change out of fear. We love our comfort zones and the peace that we have without making any changes.
We as humans are designed for change. When a woman is pregnant, her body changes for the occasion. When you decide to start a new fitness routine, your body changes from your exercise and new eating habits. When you take a class to learn a new skill or decide to go back to school after a break, your way of thinking changes. When you feel betrayed or underappreciated the way you act towards other changes. The same is true when you are valued and feel loved. Yeah, I know sometimes we don’t like or fear change but our bodies, emotions, minds and souls are designed for it.
Stand tall, hold your head up high and open your arms. Get ready to embrace the changes that are coming your way…They are designed to make you the person that you are meant to be.
Recently, I sat down and had a candid discussion with Shajita as she embarks on a journey will change the trajectory of her life as she currently knows it.
Tune in to hear Shajita discuss her journey as she prepares to take a 13 month sabbatical from her current career.
This is a conversation you definitely don’t want to miss!
“Volunteers don’t get paid, not because they’re worthless, but because they’re priceless.” ~Sherry Anderson
As a private, public or non-profit organization, it is essential to remember that those who volunteer have decided to use their gifts and talents within your organization for the following reasons:
Your organization has caught our attention. People volunteer with your organization because it aligns with their beliefs and values. Be honest about the good and the bad within the organization upfront. It allows them to choose how they want to serve.
Their gifts, talents, and skills can be used to enhance your organization. They are not looking to compete with you or take your spot within the organization; their experience, ideas, and training can help elevate your organization in many ways. After years of leading, some need/want a break from being responsible for others for a while.
Just because volunteers have free time doesn’t mean it can or should be abused. As an organization, don’t waste your volunteer’s time with meetings that are not efficient. They value their free time. They don’t mind giving it; make sure what they are volunteering for is worthwhile.
Effective communication is critical. One way to run volunteers off is by ignoring their texts and emails or not responding to them within a reasonable timeframe. Everyone is busy with life and work. Respect your volunteer’s time and make time to respond.
Acknowledge them. Let your volunteers know you “see” and value them. This can be done by acknowledging their hard work, gifts, skills, and talent or what they bring to the table, no matter how unique.
People volunteer for free. However, if there are circumstances where paying a volunteer for their services or work is warranted, then do so.
As a volunteer, what are some things you would like the organizations you volunteer with to pay attention to?
Feel free to comment below.
You will never know how your voice can make an impact.
Over the past few months, I have volunteered more with my extra time. It has been a fulfilling and a learning experience at the same time. Here are a few things to remember.
1. It is easy to get distracted. There are many volunteer opportunities, and it is easy to get distracted and want to volunteer for everything that appeals to you—instead, focus. Take your time and choose the opportunities that speak to you, your passions, and your strengths.
2. Do it, scared. Some vacancies need to be filled, where you may not have the experience—volunteer to do it anyway. If you have done it right, this is where mentorship, Standard Operating Procedures, and google come into play. You can accomplish anything with a little determination and help.
3. Bring your ideas. Depending on what type of organization you are volunteering for, it is essential to show up with ideas on enhancing the organization or the program. Again, diversity of thought is essential.
4. Show up. You’ll need to show up (online or in person) where you are needed and on time. It shows that you are dedicated and willing to put in the work. This is also important if the organization is in partnership with other organizations. You want to make sure you represent the organization positively.
5. Communicate effectively. Communicating your intentions with the leaders and members of the organization you volunteer with is essential. It allows everyone to set their expectation management and can limit miscommunication and misunderstandings. Finally, ensure you respond to all emails, texts, meeting requests, etc., that apply to you. It allows the organization’s leaders and committee leads to plan adequately based on the available volunteers.
6. Set boundaries. You can’t be everywhere all the time. Don’t overtask or overwhelm yourself. Volunteering should not feel like an additional 9-5. Instead, it should positively enhance your mind, body, and soul.
How do you show up for the organizations you as a volunteer?
I am ready for the “cool” Texas weather, the shift in priorities and all of the opportunities and roads that lead to connecting with my favorite friends, family and framily.
I am also looking forward to JUST BEING…Being love, being light and whatever else I need to be for me and to me.
I am ready to keep believing in me and my talents and gifts and those it will serve. Including me.
I am ready to keep exploring what works for me and my little family as we continue to take this journey called life.
Most importantly, I am ready to continue this journey that is made for me. It won’t be the most perfect one but it will be the one that is meant to be.
The Self-Care Journey can be new for some of us. For some of us, self-care is second nature. With the “world opening back up” it is easy to get fall back into the “hustle culture”. Whatever your journey is, here are a few questions to ask yourself to get started or to ask yourself as reminders to stay on track or get back on track.
What are some of your questions that are not on the list? Feel free to comment so others can add your question(s) to their list.
Take care of yourself first and remember, you are not taking this journey called life alone!
SheSpeakz 