I recently came across a project carried out by a US based company called The Energy Project looking at how to retain staff through busy periods. They worked with a team at Earnst and Young (a very different organisation to not-for-profits but I feel still...
I've worked in a number of organisations in the past that haven't felt all that safe. I've been in meetings where I've felt scared to speak up for fear of seeming incompetent or sounding like a fool. I chalked most of those feelings up to...
This week we have the pleasure of our wonderful associate Michaela writing for us again. Michaela talks about how self-care can be built in community with others, an idea that keeps circling itself back to Bird through conversations in workshops and with 1:1 clients. Enjoy...
Hanging on my wall at home I have the following Brené Brown quote: 'Only when we are brave enough to explore the darkness will we discover the infinite power of our light.' In her research and writings Brené Brown talks about how sadness, anger, confusion, deflation and...
Mental health is not a destination but a process. It's about how you drive, not where you're going.' Noem Schpancer I love this quote about mental health, and when better to share it than on World Mental Health Day? Mental health is an ongoing journey, we...
I started a new mindfulness course on Monday. So far the course is pure mindfulness, as opposed to guided visualisations, or philosophical guidance. And it's proving really useful already. We've been practicing body scans, and mindful everyday activities, such as making a cup of tea or...
I do a lot of listening. Whilst working, and in my personal life too. Through listening, I learn of others' stories, feelings, thoughts, struggles, wins and losses. Listening makes me feel connected to others. It feels great to learn that I'm never alone with my...
Last weekend I went along to my first Extinction Rebellion meeting. I arrived and was immediately welcomed and invited to join a group of rebels who were discussing the emotional impact of the climate emergency, and thinking of ways to self-support. I was impressed that...
September through to the end of November is always busy for Bird. Right now we have resilience workshops and coaching a-plenty. It’s hugely exciting that so many not-for-profit organisations are keen to support their staff. However, it also means there is a lot to do. I...
We recently published the second issue of The Third Space, our online magazine hosted by the excellent Medium. Our theme this time is Hope. We've shared five articles written by those with experience in the not-for-profit and public sectors, sharing ideas on what hope looks like...