Successful collaborations, as highlighted in the Collaborating video, are built on a foundation of shared values, open communication, and a willingness to engage. During the July 28 diocesan Zoom gathering, the chat was filled with ideas of what makes collaboration successful.
- Mutual Respect and Trust: This includes recognizing each other’s gifts, setting aside competition and jealousy, and building trust among participants.
- Open Communication and Interaction: Actively talking, meeting, listening, and accepting diverse opinions are crucial. This also involves asking for what’s needed and being open to providing help.
- Shared Vision and Passion: Identifying a common need, interest, or passion, whether it’s specific programs, shared liturgy, or community needs, provides a strong unifying force.
- Flexibility and Willingness to Experiment: Being open to trying new things, experimenting, and even allowing for failure fosters innovation and growth.
- Humility and Vulnerability: Acknowledging that you can’t do it all alone, being willing to be vulnerable, and asking for help are essential for effective partnership.
- Generosity and Resource Sharing: This involves sharing resources, invitations to collaborate, and demonstrating a willingness to help others, even with existing workloads.
- Intentionality and Action: Collaboration should be deliberate, with an openness to doing rather than just talking about it, and a focus on taking small, tangible steps together.
- Focus on Strengths and Opportunities: Looking at available resources and building on what’s working, rather than dwelling on what’s lacking, promotes healthy collaboration.
- Community Building: Sharing meals and laughter, fostering personal relationships, and creating events for neighboring groups help build strong bonds.
- Non-Competitive Spirit: Letting go of fear of “sheep stealing” and approaching collaboration with a non-competitive attitude allows for genuine partnership.
