Archive for category: Blog

When we think about leadership, it’s often accompanied by ideas of authority, decision-making, and results. At Creative Options Regina (COR), however, leadership is reimagined through the lens of a culture of gentleness. This philosophy emphasizes creating environments where everyone—leaders, team members, and individuals we support—feels safe, valued, and connected.

In a recent presentation at the Gentle Teaching International Conference, we reflected on our experiences fostering such a culture, sharing stories, lessons, and practices that have shaped our journey.

A Journey Rooted in Gentle Teaching

Deirdre Mercer: My first exposure to Gentle Teaching was over 25 years ago during a three-day practicum with Dr. John McGee. The experience set my path as a young professional, shaping my belief in creating trust-filled relationships as the foundation for learning and growth. Throughout my career, I’ve seen firsthand how this philosophy transforms individuals and organizations.

Jim Temple: At COR, Gentle Teaching has been part of our DNA since our inception in 2009. Unlike many organizations that adopt this approach later, COR was built on these principles, enabling us to create a culture that permeates every level of our organization—from the boardroom to the homes where we provide support.

Why Trust Matters

Trust is the cornerstone of effective leadership and teamwork. It’s not just about getting the job done; it’s about creating an environment where individuals feel safe to express themselves, take risks, and grow. At COR, we’ve worked diligently to embed trust-building practices into our organizational fabric.

We’ve done this by:

1. Listening and Learning: Through focus groups, surveys, and one-on-one conversations, we’ve asked our team what trust looks like to them. The feedback informed our organizational practices, from leadership training to day-to-day interactions.

2. Defining Shared Values: COR’s values—Innovation, Making a Difference, Autonomy, Growth, Integrity, Nurturing and Inclusive Community, and Engagement (IMAGINE)—were developed collaboratively with employees. These values guide our decisions and remind us of our collective purpose.

3. Implementing Tools for Growth: Inspired by Brené Brown’s Braving framework, we’ve trained leaders to cultivate trust through clear communication, accountability, and mutual respect.

From Safe and Loved to Growth

Creating a culture of gentleness isn’t just for the individuals we support—it’s a way of being that extends to every interaction. Leadership at COR focuses on helping people feel safe and valued, paving the way for growth.

When individuals feel secure in their environment, whether in the workplace or a classroom, they flourish. Deirdre shared a personal story about her daughter Delaney, whose academic success was profoundly influenced by teachers who made her feel safe and loved. This same principle applies to workplaces: trust and connection create the conditions for people to thrive.

Key Takeaways for Cultivating Safe and Valuing Teams

• Invest in Relationships: Leadership is about more than managing tasks. It’s about forming meaningful connections that encourage trust and engagement.
• Practice Empathy: Take time to listen and understand the perspectives of those you lead. This fosters a sense of safety and belonging.
• Be Clear and Intentional: Communication is a cornerstone of trust. As Brené Brown puts it, “Clear is kind. Unclear is unkind.”
• Encourage Collaboration: Teamwork thrives when people feel valued and supported. Make space for collective care and connection.

Together, We’re Stronger

Leadership in a culture of gentleness is a journey of evolution—one where we continually learn, grow, and improve. At COR, we remain committed to fostering environments where people feel safe, valued, and empowered to reach their full potential.

Let’s reimagine leadership as a practice of nurturing trust and building connections. Together, we can create spaces where everyone thrives.

In a world overflowing with ads, algorithms, and analytics, traditional marketing no longer cuts it. The rules of engagement have shifted, and if you’re not telling a story, you’re already behind. But here’s the kicker—you don’t just need a good story. You need a movement.

At the Gentle Teaching International Conference 2024, I had the honor of sharing this message, and now I’m excited to dive into what it means to build something bigger than a brand—a movement fueled by collective stories, shared purpose, and genuine connection.

Start with Heart: Why Stories Matter More Than Facts

Growing up, I learned one of the most important lessons of my life: everyone has a superpower. My mom, who worked in group homes supporting people with disabilities, showed me the power of connection and empathy. This perspective shaped my approach to storytelling, both in life and in work.

Here’s the truth: facts fade, but stories stick. According to the Stanford Graduate School of Business, people remember stories 22 times more than facts alone. This means if you want your message to resonate, it’s not enough to list what you do—you need to show why it matters.

From Marketing to Movements

When I say you don’t need marketing, I don’t mean stop promoting yourself. I mean stop shouting into the void. Instead of broadcasting messages, invite people to participate in your story.

Movements happen when people feel like they’re part of something bigger than themselves. Look at Patagonia, whose mission to combat climate change resonates so deeply that customers see wearing their gear as a badge of purpose. Or think of the Savannah Bananas, who reinvented baseball with creativity, humor, and community engagement. These are brands that don’t just market—they inspire.

The Power of Participation

Participation beats promotion every time. Why? Because when people engage with your story, they become ambassadors for your cause.

At Creative Options Regina (COR), we’ve seen this firsthand through campaigns like 100 Acts of Kindness. What started as a simple idea—spreading kindness and recognizing unsung heroes in the community—turned into a movement. The stories we uncovered through that initiative weren’t just inspiring; they were transformative.

In one instance, an act of kindness from a group of kids changed someone’s life. A simple compliment on a difficult day can be life-saving, a reminder that even the smallest actions have immense power.

Unreasonable People Change the World

George Bernard Shaw once said, “The reasonable person adapts themselves to the world; the unreasonable one persists in trying to adapt the world to themselves. Therefore, all progress depends on the unreasonable person.”

Movements require a bit of unreasonableness. Whether it’s painting basketball courts with Buckets & Borders or creating socks that embody an organization’s values, change comes from those who refuse to accept the status quo.

Building Connections Through Collective Stories

Communities are built on connections, and connections are built through stories. If you’re not telling your story, someone else will—and they might not get it right.

COR exemplifies the power of storytelling. Their 150+ videos on Vimeo are more than just content; they’re moments that capture the heart of their mission. They show real people, real impact, and real progress. These stories not only document their work but also inspire others to join the movement.

How to Start Your Own Movement

1. Know Your Why: Why do you do what you do? Speak from the heart and invite others to connect with your purpose.
2. Engage Your Advocates: Focus on the people who already believe in you and give them the tools to spread your message.
3. Be Unreasonable: Push boundaries, take risks, and challenge the norm.
4. Participate, Don’t Just Promote: Involve your audience in meaningful ways—through events, stories, or small acts of kindness.
5. Keep It Real: Authenticity isn’t optional. People connect with vulnerability and honesty, not perfection.

One Starfish at a Time

Changing the world doesn’t happen all at once. It happens one story, one person, one act of kindness at a time. Like the boy throwing starfish back into the ocean, your actions may seem small—but to the one person you impact, they mean everything.

So, stop worrying about marketing. Instead, focus on creating moments, telling stories, and building movements. Your story matters. Now go out and share it.