What is a course correction? When a spacecraft gets off of its trajectory, or path through space, it must be put back on the right path. The location of the spacecraft is determined and its course vector (the speed and direction of its flight) is calculated. This is compared with the path it should be on. A new vector is computed that will put it back on course. The ship’s attitude thrusters aim the ship and the main thruster pushes it along the path. (Source)
As we entered 2010 I hope that many of you created some goals for yourself with respect to your creativity. Perhaps you wanted to learn a new skill. You began to plan that art retreat. You bought a new camera with the goal of weekly photo outings. You resolved to set aside two hours a week for your writing.
Today is the Summer Solstice. Those of us in the northern hemisphere officially entered summer. This is a wonderful time for you to take stock of the year so far. Between now and the end of the month I encourage you to set aside some time to review your personal and professional goals, especially with respect to your creativity. Ask yourself questions like:
What is working well with respect to my creative goals?
Where am I getting support?
Can I amplify support?
What important goals do I still want to include in the year?
What might get in my way?
What one small thing I could do to lower the obstacles?
What’s one easy thing I could do for myself this week?
If you are pleased with your progress, Bravo!!! You may only need a tiny course correction. You may feel like you can add some more fuel for greater progress.
If you’d like a kick-start or some temporary support for your creative work you might consider a sample coaching experience to get clarity or encouragement. You might find the formal structure of a workshop gets you out the door. You may benefit from a commitment to a buddy for monthly creative-time.
Wherever you are in your “path through space” a course correction will certainly move you closer to your destination.
It’s always a challenge working on a team that’s geographically dispersed. It’s ideal if you can come together and form as a team. But that’s not always the best use of scarce resources…like budget.
But I get weary of the awkward recitations of a persona’s credentials. Where you went to school…the amazing positions…or, the worst, Two Truths and a Lie.
The next time you’re connecting with a team suggest the alternative resume as a beginning exercise.
The Alternative Resume
Not only is it a more intriguing way to enter into a new connection with a colleague. It’s also a fascinating exercise to do. Whittling down to the essential adjectives is thought-provoking.
The authors of Savoring: A New Model of Positive Experience suggest an exercise of taking a Daily Vacation Exercise.
