While observing one of our programs at Brookside Elementary IPS 54, I was struck by the girls’ and volunteers’ language and attitude while moving through the components of our program, and thought that if my life could run like a Girls Inc. program it would be more positive, less stressful, and simply more fun. 

Here is what my Wednesday would have looked like if it were run like a Girls Inc. program.

My day was all about communicating and wrapping up the volunteer experience of four incredible women I support as a program support coordinator, so I would have loved to structure my day like Session 4 of our Work It Out program – all about communication:

1) Key messages & learning about communication:  I would start my day off with reviewing lessons learned from yesterday:
    -Keep umbrella and pair of warm socks in the car.
    -Keep AAA card in car instead of in your house for 
     when your car breaks down.
    -Sushi will solve any problem.
    -Girls Inc. has some incredible women who
     volunteer to inspire Indianapolis girls.
After reviewing off yesterday’s lessons, I would narrow in and focus on my purpose for the work day.  I imagine if I thought about my objectives and purpose for each and every work day, I would smile more, feel less stressed transitioning from wrap-up interviews and meetings, and leave feeling accomplished.

2) Check-in: Upon arriving to work, I would “check-in” with my co-workers. The first 15 minutes entail a cup of coffee and catching-up with my coworkers while my laptop boots up.  Work feels like a safe place.

3) Ways of communicating: Now, it’s time to start the activities of my day.  Girls Inc. programs use the Experiential Learning Cycle, so after each activity the girls discuss the three questions below. Thus, after each of my tasks I would consider:
    -What did I just accomplish?
    -Why was this important, and what lessons may I have learned?
    -How will this help me now and in the future?
These questions would force intentionality, thoughtfulness and reflection throughout my day.

4) Listening for better friendships & calming down: When leaving the day, I would close by sharing what I appreciated about my coworkers or volunteers, as the girls end Work It Out with, “In today’s session, I appreciated (name of another girl), because (reason for appreciation).” This would strengthen my relationship with my co-workers, as I couldn’t do my job without them, and they should know how much I appreciate their work.

5) Closing: That’s a wrap on my Wednesday. How would your day look if you structured it like a Girls Inc. program? (Hint: It would be a day full of intentionality, smiles, thoughtful comments, and sheer empowerment.)