When the library closed, I was at a loss for how to be an effective manager/leader to my staff and co-workers from home. Leaving home had been my escape — so it was a challenge, especially with a 2-year-old. Making sure to be there for everyone in my friend and village circle, my employees and co-workers, and my little one. Trying to understand — but not really understanding.
 
I had to take a step back and look inward at myself and say, “Twilla, stop and take care of you — set some reasonable boundaries of what is or is not important in your space.” So, my expectations as a friend/village member, Unit Manager, and foster mom had to change.
 
The quote, “Seek first to understand, then to be understood” by Stephen Covey, became my new action plan: listen, speak, and ask questions.
 
For my village, friends, employees and co-workers, I decided to listen and share how I was — good, bad, or indifferent. I realize that we all view things from a different perspective. I had to let go of what was “normal” and serve. I accepted the challenge to be true to myself and the “New Normal.”
 
I set a weekly check-in time, during which I would call or email. I not only got to learn more about others, but I learned a lot about myself, too. Being kind and compassionate goes a long way, but most importantly, treating others how you desire to be treated is really at the top of the list.