Seems to me that at least half of league splits happen based on this perceived divide in league intentions. I'm not saying that all league splits are a totally avoidable, vortex of energy suck... Just most of them.
Wouldn't you rather skip all that? I believe you can.
Just change the dialogue. Replace both "fun" and "hard work." Roller derby is both, and when you glorify one above the other, it divides. We really all want similar things, it's the expression that either turn others off, or inspires. Which of these would you rather hear?
A) "Alright, this isn't about fun. We are a competitive team! This is about hard work! So get to work!"
B) "Wouldn't we all love to see what this team's POTENTIAL looks like?? Let's ENJOY a good sweat together and make some magic happen!"
If you can learn to have a more inspiring outlook, I sincerely believe you can bring those perceived divides together. It's just about identifying, and glorifying the common goals. I would suggest replacing the words "fun" and "hard work" with enjoyment and potential. Those are concepts most humans would like to get closer to!
Yes, there's a grind on the way to every goal, but making the grind itself your constant focus is the opposite of inspiring. The bond you share, the potential you share, the time you enjoy together... those are what we all truly cherish.
So focus on the universal love that we have for the body roller derby, rather than just glorifying one of it's arms. : )
Paint a beautiful picture of a goal that ignites a fire within me, I'll work myself into the ground for it! I believe most people probably would, with the main focus on the inspiring and end goal.
Put all your expression into a daunting picture of all the clouds and stormy weather leading up the goal... and who wants to hang out with your gloomy ass??
I could go on and on about this subject, semantics and goal achieving are two of my favorite topics! But for now, I leave you with this: Enjoy yourself, on the journey towards your potential!
Love this blog.. I will be sharing it all over..
ReplyDeleteBonnie, you are a wonder. This is soooo true! Also, who wants to lose sight of how the sport of roller derby enhances each of our lives. This is particularly important for people who have rarely before been inspired. None of us want to put the value of the top competitive teams ranking and tournament status above the needs and values of the entire league.
ReplyDeleteWell... that's not exactly what I'm saying Dame.
ReplyDeleteI'm saying if you want to BE a top team, it would be more inclusive to inspire each other to get there. Rather than use means of forceful language and coercion. Even people who don't care about playing at the most competitive level would probably still love to see what *their* potential is! That desire just needs to be ignited.
Does that make sense??
Love it...sharing indiscriminately. You are my hero, Bonnie!
ReplyDeletegood point girl!
ReplyDelete