By Melissa Davies, Wise Ways Consulting
Welcome to July!
The country is experiencing fireworks aplenty these days with polarizing Supreme Court decisions, jaw dropping Jan. 6 testimony, and our already heightened state of pandemic/endemic COVID – let’s just stick a pin in Monkey Pox for the moment.
Tempers are sparking and our already tense conversations are worse. However, we still must live and work together. One of the best parts of Prince William County is that we are made up of lots of parts. We are a community. We serve all our interests best when we find common ground.
One element in short supply these days is the skill of communication– both speaking and listening. Whether you need to redirect your toddler to stop pulling the cat’s tail or wrangle your remote team to turn on their cameras, the ability to communicate is essential. If you need to brighten your skills, or learn the basics, check out a free online course or two from Class Central.
Once you have found your voice, make sure you vote for the causes and candidates that align with your goals. You can learn the easiest way to register to vote here in Prince William County.
With your newfound negotiation skills, and a place to direct your voice, consider speaking up for those who need extra support. Rising gas and food costs are sending the most vulnerable in our community into a panic. Support our support services by donating time, food, or money to many of our hardworking charities. Become involved at the local level with causes that are near and dear to your heart. Consider running for office, there are plenty of ways you can become involved and use that voice!
Recognize that no one voice is more important than another. As we mark the nation’s 246th year, head out for some live fireworks, and leave the politics behind.
Melissa Davies is an executive leadership coach and facilitator as well as the author of How Not to Act Like a BLEEP at Work. She resides in Prince William County and is the owner of Wise Ways Consulting, which specializes in leadership, management and team development, executive coaching, group facilitation and high-engagement training. She can be reached at info@wisewaysconsulting.com or through wisewaysconsulting.com.
