Cooperative Advantage

Every year we choose a mantra that acts as our rudder as we navigate the next 12 months. It's a practice we've been using now for about 4 years and it has truly been such a gift. What it's done is really focus us in on a theme, idea or phrase that's been jumping around in our head for a while, giving us then an opportunity to get playful with it over a longer period of time. Through this intentionality we've had pathways opened up throughout all the busyness that life throws at you to dig deeper into its why, and then make connections to our own and others journeys of potential. This has assisted us immensely as we've continued to learn, contribute and grow.

"One's mind, once stretched by a new idea, never regains its original dimensions." – Oliver Wendell Holmes Sr.

So much of what we explore within our program experiences relates to how leaders purposefully choose cooperation over competition. Cooperation is vital if we are to make a difference in our own and others lives through our daily thoughts, words and actions. Leaders embrace interdependence within their learning and leadership journeys. They're willing to compassionately move beyond competing because there's a bigger why that lies within each interaction, experience or endeavour.

"Leadership is based on inspiration, not domination; on cooperation, not intimidation." - William Arthur Wood

But how often do we hear this idea of cooperative advantage being discussed in mainstream arenas? We're not sure, but we do know the phrase competitive advantage gets thrown around a lot. We want to get playful with this over the the coming 12 months because our lived experience continues to show us that when we unpack, foster and leverage cooperative advantage as leaders we as individuals and groups thrive. I can think of many examples of this within all sectors of our local and global communities.

"I can do things you cannot, you can do things I cannot; together we can do great things." - Mother Teresa

We can't wait, here's to another 12 months of exploring the possibilities, discovering potential and acting authentically. Our program experiences for 2018 kick off on Wednesday, we're so lucky to support such inspiring client schools as we strive together to foster 'informed, connected and empowered individuals believing deeply in their own and others potential'. Our second year of our partnership with SCARF (Strategic Community Assistance for Refugee Families) to facilitate a year long leadership program for young adults from refugee backgrounds kicks off in a couple of weeks, we can't wait to see what the participants do with their learning this year. Also, we have plenty of great learning experiences booked in to the schedule for ourselves as well, with some incredible leaders in their fields.

“No one can whistle a symphony. It takes a whole orchestra to play it.” - Halford E. Luccock

A huge thank you to all that we will have contact with, be inspired by and journey beside in 2018.