Although location and place are sometimes used interchangeably, “location describes a particular point on the surface of the earth. Place on the other hand, refers to the physical and human characteristics of a spot on the map. In other words, location focuses on where: place focuses on what it is like there.” National Geographic
As we have learned from the past few years, life as we once knew it has changed. The global pandemic, social injustices, ecological concerns, and humanitarian conflicts have profoundly affected us and propelled us to reconsider the “why” and the “how” of many aspects of our lives. In our work lives, we have been experimenting and innovating with new forms of work. While our past conceptualization of work included a physical location as an anchor as well as leadership models that reflected more hierarchical organizations and cultural norms that constrained individual identity, new forms of working are emerging and evolving. During times like these – times of transformation – leaders must find ways to create possibilities. This requires leaders to disassemble current structures of various kinds (physical, cultural, digital, and more), experiment with temporary structures, and reassemble a new set of attractors that in turn shape organizational practices.
One way to experience the LILA community is to join us for the upcoming Summit which will be held on June 7th. This year we will be hosting the summit in a virtual format with two-2 hour segments – one in the morning and one in the afternoon. The LILA Summit will feature a keynote address by Marissa King who will introduce us to her research on creating more conscious connections. She will be joined by six past LILA faculty members who will share their latest research with participants during small group conversations. In these sessions, you will have an opportunity to exchange ideas on how the research can inform your individual and organizational practices. The Summit is also a great occasion to meet and interact with the broader LILA community, including faculty, researchers, and current and past members, and to get a better sense as to who we are as a learning community and what you might experience as a member. To find out more about the Summit and register for LILA Summit 2023.