Here I go to save the day

Hello all,

Collaboration can prove to be a tricky endeavor to accomplish. You cannot force parties into agreement, let alone make a difference by yourself. Teamwork is needed to become a part of something bigger than one's self. It can be difficult to work with others, especially when your opinion does not seem important. Often times, leaders are trapped into micromanagement; clearly not collaborating with others.

Typically, accepting an idea that simply is not one's own can create a challenge for collaboration. When egos and credentials are involved in these arguments, work almost never gets done. It becomes very difficult to begin a conversation regarding a so-called better idea, if you feel that your solution is correct. Obstacles arise from this, and it only takes one "virus" to destroy a group. People who are ill-informed always start the which hunt. They cry wolf which tends to create quite a ruckus. Fortunately, those who are charged with solving these problems can re-iterate the purpose for collaborating. Why is it so hard to work together? Seemingly, everyone wants the same final outcome... to be the best. Unfortunately, there are more ways to do this than Ben and Jerry's has ice cream flavors. Collaboration can never be forced. By encouraging others to follow along creates a more lucrative future possibility. No one likes being backed up into a corner, but rather would feel a part of something. Something great, something legendary.

The benefits of diversity can be seen from multiple angles. For one, it immediately provides a wide variety of opinions. The more opinions voiced, generally the stronger the solution. Secondly, it also creates a culture of success. Those form various backgrounds can accomplish more than a homogeneous group. Last but not least, it promotes understanding. People treat others as they wish to be treated. This is only enhanced with many walks of life.

That is all for this week, stay tuned.

Nevin

The Jolly Citizen with two thumbs

Hello,

How does one become a citizen of a certain society? Realistically, we are all technically citizens of our country. So what more do we need? I will tell you, right now... We can all strive to be a "citizen" on a micro level, as opposed to a macro scale. A micro citizen belongs to organizations, lots of them. I, for instance, am a citizen of Pi Kappa Alpha! Very proud member, but I surely can not stop there. Simply being a participant within the group will not cut it. An active member shows citizenship, as well.

When I first entered into my collegiate career, citizenship had a drastically different meaning. Citizenship was supporting politics, helping an old lady cross the street, or picking up trash. Those are all great things to enhance society on a macro level. How can I help my fraternity on a micro level? The definition had to change. Obviously, there are different activities that can be done to improve a chapter. These activities, for a president, can include proper programming, administering rules and regulations, or participating in philanthropic events.

Getting other members within the chapter to catch on to citizenship is another story. Typically, 20% of the chapter incorporate citizenship, the other 80% are simply citizens. The goal is to have the prominent members of the chapter pull the citizens in the right direction. Often, it is a daunting task. Will the devilishly clever and charming men of Pike figure things out? Stay tuned for next time.

Yeah he did,
Nevin

Changie McChangerson

"Change will not come if we wait for some other person or some other time. We are the ones we've been waiting for. We are the change that we seek." President Barack Obama

Strong words from a strong man. Can one assume that an individual contributes to change? The president of the United States is a fantastic example for individual driven change. Coincidentally, I chose to pick his quote for the grand opening to this glorious rant.

Single-order change, within Pike, is fueled through many administrative changes from the past decade. Procedures have been created to eliminate nuances of destruction, such as: hazing, poor academic conduct, and general hooliganism. For hazing, a brand-spanking new prospective member process has been created. Poor academic conduct gets a swift kick to pants with a strong scholarship study hour commitment. Last, but not least, hooliganism is dealt with an iron hammer of justice.

Second-order change takes a much longer path down the road less traveled. An entire positive culture shift needs to be handled with extreme care. Anything less, and the children start crying for mother. Electric shock can be avoided if a proper strategic plan is implemented and well thought out. That, boys and ladies, is exactly what the gentlemen of Pi Kappa Alpha intend to do. BABY STEPS! Great things come to those who are patient, and culture requires precious time.

Great things happen to those who pay their dues. When a collection of administrative and behavioral changes occur, life can become a bit of a roller coaster. As the excitement dies down, and the engines cool off, I'll see you at the top of the mountain.

Shibby,
Nevin

What's your flavor?

Hello again,

IF there was a select individual who started a fire, the flame that drives those around him, THEN would that be something you're interested in? I think so, my friends. Our world spins slowly, but is constantly changing at a rapid rate. The good, the bad, or the ugly, no one knows...

I'll tell you what I do know, though. I sent a spark that was heard around the world, and that is Pi Kappa Alpha. The few, the proud, and yes... the freshershest.  The whole process kicks off with my spark, the little ember that could, and continues to spread the warmth. The ability to ignite an entire community IS power. That, seemingly, becomes the reason for a fraternity's existence. Be an intricate part of something bigger than one's self or organization. With your powers combined, you win.

Was there experience gained? ABSOLUTELY. Unlike any other situation, a unique, personal growth environment is fostered. Does that mean I can wrestle a bear? No - Well, maybe... However, I am now a mean, lean, instigator of change. I ate my wheaties this morning, what did you do?

Keep Trucking,
Nevin