Philosophy and Values

Influences

Growing up in Scotland, I was fortunate to experience an education system which allowed a broad range of subjects for study. I followed both science and arts (music) – an interesting mix of logic, interpretation, sensing and expression of feeling.

Approaching the end of secondary school education, I was faced with a decision between studying medicine or music. I chose music and psychology and later, as a music therapist, I worked with children and adults with physical, learning and mental health disabilities in a variety of settings. Moving into managing and running information and advice services in public and voluntary sectors offered the opportunity to combine logical abilities (planning, organising, systems, procedures, and processes) with the understanding of personal and interpersonal processes needed in working with others.

Connections

On reflection, I see the connections between these two aspects of my work. Themes of structures, form, rhythm, interaction, harmony, analysis, stasis, function, process, organisation, discovery, chaos, innovation, development, ideas, counterpoint, emotions, intuition, interdependence, resonance, space, and time. These have their own meanings in science, arts, and nature, as well as in teams and organisations. My approach and inspiration come from what each teaches us of the other, based on experience and application.

Attitudes, Feelings and Actions

My experience, knowledge and training tell me that what we 'do' is the interdependence of organisational, personal and interpersonal processes. From this view, I encourage people to understand how personal and organisational effectiveness and success depends on our core attitudes (regard for self and other), our feelings (awareness of self and other) and our actions (self management and relationship management). 

A practice of Inquiry

Whether delivering learning and development opportunities on a one-to-one or a group basis, the common feature is the power of inquiry and reflection, new perspectives and interweaving learning into real life situations. In my work as a trainer, facilitator and mentor, I invite you to stand back, take a broad view, ask questions, reflect and put that learning into action. From the macro to the micro, external and internal - each can help us in both our work and personal lives. This is what I call 'the art of development - improving performance through people'.