In a world that is full of polarities, we need to start focusing on what works.
Over the last few years, I’ve had the pleasure of sitting at the table with people from various public and private sectors. This experience has given me the opportunity to see how others think, act and respond. I have been in my own traditional business for a number of years, but I also consider myself a “Creative” in many ways. I found it difficult at the start of my social synergy adventure because when you enter into cross-sector collaboration it takes a while for the different cultures, of each sector to gently merge and build their pillars of confidence, respect, and trust.
However, I was determined to get over this restricting “them and us” mindset, after all my philosophy is Social Synergy creates Social Change and I promote Collaborative Culture Leadership where ever I can.
Clearly, I had to find a way to adapt my way of being to be more inclusive, observant and receptive. It has taken a while to see a clear way forward on this one, just when you think you are there, egos get in the way – you know the old one step forward two steps back story.
But just when you least expect it you see a new way forward… And that was precisely it – each party needs to be willing to create a new way of getting there together.
And it is only through our collective building of these strong pillars, which are reinforced with our respect and trust that we each feel ready and willing to – build bridges of humanity, supported by our collective pillars, and holding strong for the purpose of Possibility, Opportunity, and Sustainability.
We need to build THREE BRIDGES for THREE REASONS
- To See Opportunity
- To Offer Opportunity
- To Create Opportunity
Together we need to see the opportunity to develop and support the culture of social enterprise. . .
Together we need to offer opportunity in the form of; keeping social enterprise conversations going that ignite productive outcomes . . .
Together we need to create a collaborative culture opportunity through transition bridges between and in community, government, and business. . . that ensure a prosperous future.
People, Place, and Purpose are key for us all… grassroots and globally.
And when we make this valuable distinction that we can’t do it alone – we begin to see, feel and experience the potential of true prosperity for all.
Elizabeth Ellames
NOW Inc 