- Dream. Dream as big as you can while understanding your own limitations. Set a goal. Make a plan. Step by step lay it all out to understand the path you will travel down to succeed. Every success story began with a dream.
- Listen. Consult with those who are impacted in the greatest ways for they hold knowledge you cannot gain any other way than through lived experience. This will aid in coming up with tangible solutions. Ask plenty of questions and understand the people and what they say even when it may not be your own way.
- Collaborate. Form a team with whom you can carry out your dream. Ask people for help and give assistance so you can carry out your plan with sustenance. Know you cannot change the world on your own. Find a team who will help you plant the seeds and support you in ways you need. Don’t be afraid to lead.
- Create. Put your plan into action so you can start making an impact on your community. Try to make an effort and you will make change even if you hit a few roadblocks along the way.
- Persevere. Conflict is inevitable. Failures are bound to happen but it is from where you gain the biggest lessons. Continue even when the going gets tough and whatever you do don’t give up.
- Build. Expand. Grow. Figure out where else you want to go. Once you have gained traction. Keep your wheels in action.
- Sustain. Your practice cannot see gains if you burn out from the work you do. Don’t underestimate the importance of rest. Take care of your whole self and the ways you need to and don’t forget you can receive Community Care too.
- Express. Have gratitude for people, lessons, resources, and for yourself throughout this process. Make art with the supplies you have. Whether that be a leaf from a tree or through poetry. Find ways you can share all of your care you have gained from your journey. Reciprocate your love with your community.
- Evaluate. Circle back again to where and why you began. How did you get here? Accept feedback and figure out ways to implement it to continue to work towards Community betterment. What have you gained from your experience? What have you gave from the work you did? What are your strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats? What would you do differently if you did it again? Remember to thank your team And throughout the whole process continue to dream.
7 Key Takeaways from the Pollinator Stewardship Certification Program
Things I learned in 7 training sessions on my journey to becoming a Certified Pollinator Steward
Bonus: things I learned during the Habitat Creation Action and Outreach/Education Action
Thank you Mabe for your generous spirit and being such a valuable member of the Rural Change Maker program. You inspire each of us with your creativity, thoughtfulness, commitment and passion. Can’t wait to celebrate your contributions to Brant County through your Pride initiative!