Work Smarter not Harder: Percussion Discussion

Have you ever had something inside you that wanted expression, but you just didn’t have the words? What happens if it stays inside without an outlet? What happens if you keep putting others’ needs before your own?

I visited the Family Resource Center where Wendy Pender hosted a Health Rhythms Drumming session. Stressed out people enjoyed relief as they drummed out what they were feeling inside. I watched as they walked out the door after an hour of expression and visualizations knowing they would have a more productive day than if they hadn’t been there.

Nonprofit professionals are the most giving people I know. Trouble is, they don’t always give themselves what they need. I talked with two people as I waited for the doors to open. They were under deadlines and pressure to get things done. As much as they were drawn to the music and the thought of taking a few deeps breaths, they shook their heads and scurried off to their jobs.

Wendy volunteers her time to give people a chance to rest, reflect, connect with each other and go forward working with their own inner power. There’s a plethora of research at www.remo.com/health documenting the benefits of this work such as reducing burn-out, boosting the immune system, and improving emotional states.

Steven Covey suggests sharpening the saw as one of the habits of highly effective people. Chopping wood with a dull saw requires a lot of effort and you don’t see much result for all your hard work. Chopping the same wood with a sharp saw, you get twice as much done with a lot less effort.

When nonprofit professionals see all the work that needs to be done on this planet, it’s tempting to dive right in and start chopping. But taking time to sharpen your tools (communication, connection, teamwork) makes sense if you want to make serious progress in a world that desperately needs you. Whether it’s dance, painting or drumming, make it a priority to replenish your spirit.

For more information on getting to the heart of your message and speaking in a way that draws people in, please visit www.pamelaziemann.com