Is this what progress looks like?

You know how I hate staff meetings? In case you don't: I hate staff meetings. It's the same problem I have with potlucks. I have many reasons that feel valid in my head that explain why I don't have them very often but when I say it out loud it feels flat and unjustifiable.

They don't pay attention

I just end up having to explain the same stuff later one-on-one

They want to know so much about things that aren't relevant

We waste time getting off topic

People turn an informational meeting into a bitch session, but when I offer them time to hear about their complaints, they clam up

They're bored and disinterested during meetings

They are disengaged and distract each other

Understandable? Maybe. A valid reason for not having meetings? Not by a long shot.

So I got on my big-girl clothes recently and held a meeting. Much like my recent potluck, my attitude going in was better, and I got better results. Huh.

It was enjoyable. It was very relaxed. Everyone was open and friendly. When I spoke honestly about my own short-comings they were more forgiving than I ever could have hoped for. I didn't hate it. And they didn't hate it either.

I am continually surprised by how often I am forced to learn this lesson. I know better, yet I seem to find new and creative ways to fail so many times in a row.

Now all their attitudes were different: they were more helpful toward each other, offering to assist each other with work. They seemed to be in better spirits with one another, and with me.

Maybe I've turned a corner? Wouldn't that be neat?