Frustration needs hope to kick people into positive action. Change becomes easier when you put a team or community right at the centre of this action. Creating change is not a one-person-job.
“Connectedness” is my number one Gallup Strengthfinder strength. This trait makes me look at everything as a system. I can see (and often feel) how elements, events and people belong and depend on each other. This strength can also be a challenge as it often makes it unbearable for me to watch leaders (or people in power) not caring about the whole.
2019 was such a moment when our government in Australia totally neglected the impacts of climate change on people, environments and the economy. This was the first time ever that I became politically active in Australia. Just in a small way as I had to deal with a health issue during election time.
Three years later, our current government has managed to let us slip another five places to 59th (out of 64 countries) in this year’s CCPI (Climate Change Performance Index). Consequently, I signed up for a volunteer leadership position in an Independent campaign. My local MP in Warringah, Zali Steggall, had introduced the Climate Change Bill in parliament and is now offering a “5 steps to net zero” policies program. All connected to a future-focused circular new economy that works for everyone. Zali clearly offers hope for positive change. And a large part of the community is behind her.
Without #TeamZali none of her change endeavours would be feasible. Working in this election campaign team has been a lot of fun (Honestly, I didn’t expect that…) and opened my eyes to how politics can be done differently.
Here are three things that I experienced that are worthwhile remembering for any organisational leader:
Self:
Self-care and making sure that people around you are ok and energised to keep going are a natural priority. We were encouraged to not campaign during Easter, take time off when needed and regularly check in with others.
Stakeholders:
When signing up as a volunteer, you agree to a code of conduct. At its core, this consists of being positive, polite, prepared and purposeful. This defines all communication and interactions with anyone you might encounter during the campaign time.
System:
The supporting IT, logistics and communication systems are professionally designed to reduce friction and support flow. There is great clarity on what to focus on and what to ignore. Context-awareness of what other players are doing is an invaluable guide for quick decision-making.
Overall, I’m having a very positive experience of what politics could be. And at the same time, I notice how much more change will be needed to bring politics and the parliament back to a place where considered, respectful and deep conversations can happen. However, I’ve decided to stay in the business world! Hopefully, the next parliament will be a place for better conversations and future-oriented decision-making. A place where every politician realises that #healthypeopleneedahealthyplanet. We will see…
I’m signing off now from my volunteer work as I’ll be in Western Australia on a long-planned nature-trip for the rest of May. Hiking in some National Parks and swimming with the whale sharks. After my return in June, I’ll be introducing a new leadership program for “Naturally Successful Changemakers”. Stay tuned.
Naturally yours,
Ingrid