Do you ever find yourself in a place you don't 'have enough spoons' to keep doing something, and wrestle with how pass it on, or whether to just end it?
I have! (And I try to do it graciously!)
Several years ago, my friend Linda and I were ready to pass leadership of a creative group to someone else, and no one in our collective stepped forward, so it went on pause. We'd met in person (I hosted a gathering in 2019) then virtually.
A year or so after we stepped down, a new graduate took on our region - but the umbrella organization neglected to have her network with us!
I did email Constance when I saw she was now coordinating our region, and passed on our contact list, but the transition was less than ideal! When I suggested other newer graduates to contact, she replied, 'that's above my pay grade!' And the last virtual gathering she facilitated is a year past ...
(Lol - Linda and I were also volunteers!)
This year, a friend who's been coordinating our Annual Hexendance realized, 'it's just not on my radar. I don't have the energy to try to get others to join. I'm tired of being a leader for so many things."
A group gathers for a couple of practices, then on Halloween, we dance in the blocked off street during downtown Trick or Treating. Willow brings a cauldron and dry ice, the shops on either side of the street are very supportive. And it's popular - we always have a great turnout and response!
So I wonder - did my friend think to ask the other key players if they wanted to take over/ carry on?
.... in any event ... Willow and Rebecca picked up the wand! Lara let us in to practice, and we rehearsed last night - with over 20 attendees - including two Warlocks!
Rebecca sent around an email list, which they will combine with the original list. We talked about a potluck kick-off next year in September, and another friend's mama offered her house!
There's still energy for the event - and the wand has passed!
Last year, inspired by Jasmine's post on Halloween crafts and decor, I made a little amigurumi bat!! I've danced with my broom in the past - but love this colorful walking stick, and attached Mavis at the top.
Absolutely - passing the wand can be a big challenge. It led me to being the President of our local PTO (Parent Teacher's Organization) for a decade.
ReplyDeleteI think one key (not that we tend to think of this until after) is to go into any volunteer initiative with a clear picture of when and how you might want to pass the wand.
I love that - go in with a clear intention of how to pass the wand!!
DeleteThank you
Nadya
I'm not as familiar with successfully passing the baton. What more often happened was the dreadful silence after saying I wanted to do that, when no one volunteered to take over. Glad it worked out for the Halloween event.
ReplyDeleteRight? That long, dreadful silence!
ReplyDeleteI'm also so glad it worked out for Hallows! And appreciate the new energy and ideas for next year!
Nadya