RESOURCES FOR PROFESSIONAL GROWTH

Due to COVID, our lives have all shifted in new ways - and potentially to a greater degree than before, we can be developed professionally - here are some tips about

  • Create a Rule of Life for Yourself: One of the best ways to utilize this time is to process for yourself. Check out The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry. I would highly suggest using this time to create a Rule (or Rhythm) of Life for yourself—something to use in this season, and incorporate into the next. Spend some time to check in with yourself. What stage of life are you really in and where do you want to be headed? What areas do you want to grow in, and what are some resources to help get you there? A good place to start in your time of reflection is this series by Practicing the Way, which goes over theories of development, attachment, The Enneagram, Spiritual Life Inventory and more. One crucial aspect of this is Practicing a Sabbath, reflect on this resource and start to implement it in this season

  • Pursue Resources for Further Self-Awareness: from doing the StrengthsFinder test and coaching, to the Enneagram (there are people in our community that do trainings in this test, email us for the latest information),

  • Seek Mentorship: Think about an area where you could use mentorship—be that personally or professionally. Think about who may be a person that could give you advice in different areas (I personally have many mentors, including for my marriage, as a woman in ministry, for leadership, etc.)

  • Online Tools: You’ll likely will still be having meetings online, so here are a few of my favorite tools- Google Hangouts (which allows for making phone or video calls as well as messaging) or Zoom (you can record your meeting as well as share a presentation). There are quite a few online collaboration tools that may be worth looking into. I’ve used Asana and Trello, but ended up using Google (GSuite) because that’s what my co-workers were most comfortable with. DocHub helps you to make editable PDFs.

  • Get Trained: There will most likely be a shift in using online communication tools, so it’s beneficial to train yourself in using a few of the most popular programs through Google (GSuite) by watching the video below

conflict resolution tips

To train yourself in using a few of the most popular programs through Google (GSuite)

Tips for Working from Home:

1. Develop a Morning Routine 

A little discipline goes a long way. Be intentional. Experiment and find a routine that works for your unique situation and is easy and enjoyable, and the rest will fall into place.

  • 2. Open Your Windows 

    One of the simplest things you can do to improve the air quality in your home is to open your windows. Even in the cold months, for just a few hours a day, you could vastly improve the air quality in your home.

    3. Move Your Body 

    The fact is, the human body was not built to withstand this much sitting. Depending on your ability and desire, anything from a few desk stretches, to a lunchtime walk would give your body and your brain the boost it needs to keep those creative juices flowing.

    4. Plan Breaks 

    When you’re working on a project, writing, or generally doing any kind of absorbing task, it’s easy to lose track of time. The last thing you want is to be working so hard that you miss a valuable snack or coffee break:

    • Set a rough schedule for yourself and stick notifications on your phone to remind you. Or if you’re a bit more analogue, write it in your to-do list to take breaks at certain times of the day.

    • Here’s mine as an example:

      • 11 am – coffee break (snack if required)

      • 12 noon – lunch

      • 3 pm – snack break or simply walk around a bit

    Even if you’re not hungry or would rather keep working, these breaks act as a switch in your mind to take a break. Your brain simply can’t keep working for hours straight. Give it a rest and give your body some fuel.

    5. Remove Your Distractions 

    It’s no surprise that when we’re working from home it’s almost impossible not to get distracted. If social media is your problem, remove the apps from your phone. Is it email? Schedule to read only at certain times of the day. If it’s friends and family, start setting boundaries with them. If it’s household mess and chores, ask your family to help, or schedule in time to clear your space. After all, your home is your office, it needs to be treated as one.

    6. Dress Like You’re Going to Work 

    It’s tempting to stay in your oh-so-cozy pajamas all day, but eventually, this will make you feel pretty low. If you feel confident about your appearance, you’ll exude that when you connect with people over the phone. If you want a professional image, put on an outfit, even if the mirror is the only one who will see you.

7. Tips on How To Use Zoom

These links cover the Basics and how to use Zoom as an educational tool