The Heartbreak Frustration

Last week I had the honor of presenting at Penfield Children’s Center All Staff Retreat at Mount Mary University.? The topic was Play at Work.? We were focusing on things that got in the way of “play at work.”? One topic was frustrations.? We were sharing current frustrations that prevented our play energy.

The plan was to have people share a frustration and have everyone offer strategies to overcome and get to a better, more ideal scenario. ?This team knows that when a member of humanworks8 facilitates anything, we welcome a focus on both work and life…?

A hand went up to volunteer a current frustration and what amazed me was the vulnerability and trust present in the room because a topic was mentioned that had never come up in a presentation or session before – heartbreak.? Not work, but life.

I paused and expressed my gratitude for the topic.? I highlighted the trust and vulnerability that it took to say it.

And guess what?? The team went at it with vigor and thoughtfulness.? Strategies were shared openheartedly including focusing whatever you were looking for in someone else on yourself and taking some time away for oneself.? People were thoughtful and caring.? They said yes and “played” with the topic.

Had I expected this frustration when I walked into the room that day?? Not at all.? Did it become one of the memories that will last?? Yes.? Here I am, a week later wondering about it.? Will it remind me of the power to celebrate and support people both at work and in life?? Yes.?