What our leaders can learn from our kids

This is a spontaneous post which I was inspired to write a few moments ago. I’m sitting here trying to focus on preparing content for our leaders on how to connect and engage with employees during these challenging times … and there’s screaming and shouting coming from Liam’s bedroom. Of numerous young voices.

He’s alone (obviously).

I peek round the door and there are multiple frames of kids on his computer screen and here’s what they’re up to: they’ve recreated the Pesach scouts “tiyul” (meaning “trip”). It’s one of the highlights of the year for all ages in the scouts – they hike and eat crap and lose their voices and don’t shower for days. Bliss.

They’re totally bummed that it’s been cancelled (obviously); especially the younger ones that Liam (and his friends) are in charge of.

So, all the “madrichim” (“counsellors”) got together and decided that they’re going to make it happen anyway. The Virtual Pesach Camp. They have planned full days of activities: morning wake up at 6:30am… virtual hikes … camp food … late night torch stories before bedtime … and apparently tomorrow tent building in our living room.

And I hear laughter. So much laughter.

As I get back to my work (but it’s so hard to focus!) it occurred to me that there are parallels here: our leaders have much to learn from these “young leaders”. These days they are struggling to stay connected with their employees, keep up engagement, recreate the feeling of togetherness. So, here’s what we can learn from the scouts about exactly how to do that:

1. Be compassionate, show empathy. These are not usual times. Many people are struggling with new concerns such as childcare, aging parents, isolation, finances. (And maybe these kids are “only” sad about missing their trip, but for them, it’s a struggle too). Show that you see your employees struggles, share stories, maybe you have your own concerns too that they can relate to? Be there for each other, even with laughter.
2. Be creative, use your imagination. This new reality demands us to do new things in new ways. Can’t meet for morning coffee anymore? Do it over a quick zoom every morning. Used to eat lunches together? Have a team cook out. Share photos, funny videos – find NEW and INTERESTING ways of coming together as a team.
3. And finally, be comfortable being uncomfortable. Trust me, Liam is pretty uncomfortable right now rising at 6:30am. The new ways of doing things mean we are trying things out for the first time. We are not seeking perfection here, it’s about showing up regularly, checking in and building in new habits. Don’t worry if it doesn’t run smoothly – this makes you human, and that builds trust.

As I sign off Liam has rushed out of his room to grab snacks from the fridge. He’s excited, happy, wants to share with me that it’s going SO brilliantly. He’s even got a croaky voice already – the sign of a successful camp. The free Zoom 40 minutes session has ended, they’re all reconnecting. To be honest, I haven’t seen him this animated for a while, and it warms my heart.

Wishing happy times to all. Stay safe and healthy.