Happy New Year - 2012

The Holidays fell on the weekend this year, so it seemed to stretch the season for an eternity. We are back at it now - ready to gear up for a new year of imagining, planning, visioning, adapting, serving. Working in an association requires skills in many areas. MSAE will be working to help association professionals learn about these many attributes and will provide numerous opportunities to connect with peers and colleagues. As you head into the new year remember, life's possibilities are endless.

Generations

Tips from the Meeting Management Education Council - 12.10

1. Be flexible in your communication style. A one-size-fits-all method of interaction no longer applies.

2. Recognize that generational discussions often pigeonhole people. Keep in mind that an individual’s generational context is only one piece of their profile (i.e. personality, family background, etc. also need to be considered).

3. When dealing with your board of director or committee groups you need to find a way to make the Baby Boomers feel that they are still necessary and important while creating opportunities for the younger generations to come in and make their mark.

Lazy Hazy Crazy Days

Does anyone else remember when summer time was considered a slow time for associations - an opportunity to regroup, plan, vacation, relax a bit? Seems like a LONG time ago. Summer at MSAE now means the EXPO - golf, dues, annual audit, 5500, year end. (To name a few). Staying busy constantly at work reminds me how important it is to like what you are doing, to have a passion about it. Franklin Roosevelt said, " Happiness lies in the joy of achievement and the thrill of creative effort." And others have said, "If you make your job important it is quite likely to return the favor." Enjoy every day - make the most of it!

Times Are Tough

There is no doubt about it - times are tough. Everyone is feeling the pinch. However, I have found that my day starts out better if I don't listen to the doom and gloom on the news each morning. The negativity of it all can wear one's ability to focus on what matters right now, and that's our members and our members wants and needs. I do believe that if we all continue to provide value, excellent customer service, and new ideas, we will weather the storm. Try it. How about no doom and gloom for one whole week?

Busy

Busy. We all wear it like a badge. But you know what? We are all busy, so why even bother with - Oh I am so busy, busy, busy? In 2009 I won't say it. I won't use it. I won't tolerate it. Happy New Year!

Attitude

The Joy is in the Journey...

Planning

Arrived home last night to a flooded basement, falling ceiling, gushing water pipe. Definitely not in my plans. As I was rushing to turn off the water supply many thoughts were bombarding me. I was glad I knew where to go to get to the main water supply. (Being prepared). I was relieved that this did not happen while I was out of town for a week. (Looking on the bright side.) I had the number for a professional plumber. (Planning). I realized that no matter how much you plan, how much you prepare, there are unexpected events that happen that can't be anticipated. You have to be prepared to deal with it. Have an emergency fund, (surplus) adequate insurance coverage (risk management). Adapt. Change your plans to buy that new TV - and get the damage repaired instead. Same rules apply at an association. Have the plan. Be prepared. Get insurance. Have a surplus. Be flexible. And of course, don't worry, be happy.