Learning and Growing

Yesterday I wrote about the different rhythms of nourishment of this year. Another aspect of this year is that for me it has been a period of learning and growing. There's a certain element of COVID restrictions which has made it easier to take a step back and reflect on a number of things. 

I'm definitely doing that in my work role and it's been a good time to take advantage of all sorts of courses and programmes that help me to do that, and to make changes to improve. I am part of a year long course about caring for cross-cultural workers, which has been great to understand more about the pressures and challenges that we face generally, as well as the extra challenges that this year has brought. 

I've been a part of a Women in Leadership Coaching programme over the last 6 months. I am culturally the odd one out in the group, so often need a bit of translation but we've talked about personality types and how they can affect our leadership styles and interactions with colleagues. We also assess our own ability in leading relationally, strategically, spiritually, and visionary, and talked through how to find a balance between each of these aspects. 

To be honest I've been a bit disappointed with the lack of depth involved in the programme (culture is definitely a factor in that) but simply by participating in the programme has made me look elsewhere for further reflection and input. I undertook a 360 degree evaluation, getting anonymous feedback from several different colleagues. The experience can be a bit sobering, as how other people perceive you comes into clearer focus, but in the long run, it's given me insight into how to adjust interactions so that people receive what I really intend to communicate. I'm really grateful to a few friends who have helped in that process, as I reflect on the feedback and weigh it up in the light of my calling and cultural expectations. 

And this year hasn't just been about growing in my work role. I've also really appreciated regularly being a part of a small group for great spiritual discussions and challenges. I have added in other short courses to 'lean into' the gifts that I've been given in a greater depth and confidence. In the process, I'm excited and intrigued to keep on stepping out of my comfort zone and to push myself further in trusting God and growing in him.

Nourishment

I read an article recently that said that reading a novel is a asignificant antidote to stress. They said that the process of immersing yourself in someone else´s world and story enables you to disconnect temporarily from the concerns, uncertainties and fears in your own situation. The article also said that reading fiction had significantly increased during 2020!

So here´s a quick look at some of what I've been reading lately.

 

Plus several classics that I've borrowed from Mum's bookshelves. 

I was also reflecting with some friends about the rhythms that are sustaining us through this year. Several people have asked me if I'm upset by being 'stuck' in the UK. I'm not. I guess it's one of the things I learnt early on in missionary life split between 2 very different countries was to always appreciate and take advantage of the things you can do, or see, or eat in the country you're in at the time, rather than pining for what you miss from the other country. 

So this year I have appreciated being able to buy books easier and quickly!, as well as regular connections with family and local friends, Devon countryside, British food (parsnips!!!!!) amongst many other things.

We also recognised that the rhythms that keep us sane and healthy don't have to last forever. They can  change and adapt as the circumstances and seasons change. So in the first lockdown, I created rhythms of countryside walks in wonderful spring weather, and sketching every day. Then there were a couple of months of daily swims. Now in this second lockdown (accompanied by decidedly colder and wetter weather), I've taken advantage of online ballet classes for exercise - rekindling my youthful enthusiasm for dance as well as my frustration with french terms!!

The important thing is to do things that nourish us. Being present where we are helps us to appreciate the blessing in each place and time. 

What rhythms do you have to keep yourself nourished at the moment?