Anyone who has ever tried to organize a large meeting during the winter or summer knows the challenge: out-of-office messages, holiday vacations, family visits—it can feel like productivity has been put on hold. Attempting to force through gatherings during these times is akin to planting seeds in the height of summer and expecting them to thrive. Instead, we should embrace the seasonal nature of collaborative work and organize our efforts in alignment with these natural rhythms.
Winter: A Time for Reflection and Maintenance
Winter is an excellent period for introspective and strategic work. This season is ideal for:
- Small-team strategy sessions: Focused and intimate, these meetings allow for in-depth discussion and planning.
- Data and analysis review: Assess target goals from the past year and draw insights.
- Establishing metrics: Set clear, measurable objectives for the upcoming year.
- Year-end reflection: Send letters to networks, board members, and staff to reflect on achievements and future plans.
- Individual professional development: Encourage team members to pursue training and development.
However, winter is not the best time for:
- Large-team or network gatherings: Coordinating these during peak holiday seasons can be challenging.
- In-person group trainings: Attendance and engagement may be low.
Spring: A Time for Renewal and Collaborative Development
As the year begins to warm, so does our opportunity to energize our teams. Spring is perfect for:
- Kick-off meetings: Align networks on goals and processes for the year ahead; renew connections and focus on relationships.
- Professional development: Foster growth and skill-building among staff.
- Program implementation: Start executing planned initiatives.
Avoid tasks that require:
- Low-energy work: This season’s energy is better suited for dynamic and engaging activities.
Summer: A Time for Organization and Strategic Development
Summer offers a chance to refine and develop. This season works well for:
- Small-team meetings/Staff Retreats: Check in on progress and reassess goals.
- Metrics review and process tweaks: Fine-tune systems and strategies.
- Professional development: Continue skill enhancement.
- Knowledge management: Organize files, update platforms, and improve tracking systems.
However, summer is (usually!) not suitable for:
- Large-team or network gatherings: Coordinating these during vacation season can be difficult.
- In-person group training: Attendance may be inconsistent.
Fall: A Time for and Execution, Implementation, & Strategic Refinement
As we gear up for the year’s end, fall is ideal for collaborative efforts. Focus on:
- Large-scale network meetings: Gather teams to consolidate efforts and drive forward.
- Virtual webinars and trainings: Leverage online platforms for widespread engagement.
- Professional development: Continue to build skills within your staff and networks.
- Celebrate success! Share wins, lessons learned, key areas to bring into focus in the coming year
- Year-end strategy meetings: Prepare for the coming year with small, focused teams.
- Program implementation: Execute key initiatives before the year closes.
Avoid tasks related to:
- Youth-engagement work: Schedules may be less flexible during school periods.
Join the Conversation!
What would you add to these lists? Leave us a comment—we’d love to hear your thoughts!
For more insights on the seasonal nature of knowledge work, explore:
To Cure Burnout, Embrace Seasonality (New York Times)
Slow Productivity: The Lost Art of Accomplishment Without Burnout
The Four Seasons of Productivity (Medium)
Embrace the seasons, and let your network strategy flourish year-round.
Shine Lab Associates 