About Co-creation
Photo Credit: Grace Solkinson
What’s co-creation?
Holobiont HUB is rooted in evidence that considerate collaboration between humans is essential for positive outcomes. If we cannot establish constructive peer-networks, we will never reach a future where humans co-exist with the other amazing forms of life in our beautiful bioworld.
For a decade of my life, due to the patient guidance and caretaking of Dr. Gail Wilson, I experienced a joyful and productive culture of co-creativity. So, I know it’s possible!
Tensions and hurt feelings still happen in co-creative communities, because we’re all flawed people. But a team that learns to unleash its collective intelligence is powerful. The fun we experience together eclipses our minor disharmonies.
What about the people in charge?
Enjoyable co-creation is only possible when leaders embrace the values of sociocracy. Here are some key features:
Respect for all people and commitment to psychological safety are cherished
Diverse cultures, backgrounds, experiences, perspectives, and opinions are celebrated
Relational connections characterized by transparency and accountability are common
Everyone is invited to inform and challenge decisions with the goal of convergence
Hierarchies are replaced with interdependent roles and responsibilities
Is this amazing vision even possible?
Without giving details publicly, I’ll admit that it can go terribly wrong. It takes principled and mature leaders with clear and unified vision to act as a guardians and custodians of co-creative and sociocratic processes. Such leaders are rare!
But more often, we don’t experience sociocracy because we don’t even try. Humans are often drawn into power and status games that are incompatible with co-creative and sociocratic ideals.
Most of us remember disrespectful and vindictive supervisors. Diversity can be discussed with no actions. Directors can be secretive and defensive. Valid suggestions can be ignored by those in power, because they want to set priorities and maintain control.
See. I’ve got my eyes open to reality. Even though H.H. isn’t a business, it will be operated by humans who have failings. As I declare that I’m willing to be a facilitator and leader in this experiment, I’m acutely aware of my own quirks and shortcomings.
I’ll be asking for a lot of help! We can cultivate a healthy and fun atmosphere together.
Further Reading…
About Sociocracy
About Co-creation in business
