It’s nap time in the Geinzer household and I have the opportunity to reflect back on a great week in Boyne. Professional and personal development is critical in most lines of work, but often times I think even more so for those of us delivering great services to our constituents and building strong communities. In my book, Boyne was a home run! It showed me that our organization responds to its members.
A couple years ago, you told the Professional Development Committee that you wanted a stronger Summer Workshop without sacrificing the opportunities for personal growth. To the Summer Workshop Committee I say, “This was a huge step in the right direction.” Take Friday’s session for example:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6ki-zDwO198&feature=youtu.be
Kent Sharkey’s presentation epitomized the importance of MLGMA in my professional and personal life. Maybe that’s why I have given so much time to this organization. For every hour I have been willing to put in, MLGMA gives back tenfold.
We all face challenges at work. We all face challenges at home. We all face challenges with change. We all face challenges in many aspects of our lives. What Kent reminded me is that letting these challenges continue to serve as barriers will “kill me!” My health will be impacted, my motivation will slide, and my relationships will suffer. Stress is a killer no matter how you define it.
But, look what Mike was able to do with his supporters. We are as strong as our foundation. We can break through any barrier, tackle any stressor, accomplish any goal when we have people to support us and help us. As I sat in that room and reflected on the previous three days, it struck me like a ton of bricks how very lucky I am to be a part of MLGMA.
I am truly blessed to have made the professional and personal connections that I have made over the last nearly eight years. Some of the most important people in my life I have met through MLGMA. They have become my supporters, my confidants, and my cheerleaders. They have become the ones that I can count on to help me break through my barriers, tackle my stressors, and accomplish my goals. They know who they are, and I say thank you to all of them from the bottom of my heart.
Do you know who your supporters are? Are they ready to help you through your challenges? Maybe you need someone new? I am not sure you can have too many!
This is the first of many blogs to follow over the next couple months focusing on how the Professional Development Committee (PDC) is working to support our members with both professional and personal growth. In particular, we will discuss how our new coaching/mentoring resource is taking shape. I think you will find that your PDC is working hard to provide you, and future leaders, access to the resources that can help you break through your barriers, accomplish your goals, and help you succeed.
Nate Geinzer, Assistant to the City Manager
Farmington Hills
Nate joined the City of Farmington Hills management team in late 2007. He has a diverse set of responsibilities including special projects, policy research and development, and legislative affairs, He functions as a liaison to residents, helping to resolve citizen concerns and promote city initiatives. Nate is a graduate of Eastern Michigan University with a master’s degree in Public Administration. He has served in municipal government since 2005, and was previously employed by the cities of Brighton and Berkley. Nate is also chair of the MLGMA Professional Development Committee.