A Holiday Wishlist for Less Meeting Mayhem

'Tis the season for joy, cocoa…and for policy administrators, a merry juggling act between managing policies, deciphering new laws, and reflecting on the year’s endeavors. The past few years feel like the Grinch made off with our precious time, leaving us in virtual meetings.

If your holiday wish list includes fewer meetings and more sanity, you're not alone! Let's unwrap the gift of time by tackling the addiction to meetings.

The Meeting Epidemic: A Festive Overload

Picture this: a conference room adorned with tinsel, where meetings drag on longer than Northern Ontario winters. In many organizations, it's a struggle to find time for 'real' work amidst the sea of meetings and endless video calls.

Gina-Santa’s Other Elf’s Six Questions to Rescue Your Schedule

Do We Need This Meeting, or Is It Just a Mistletoe Misunderstanding?

Sometimes, meetings happen out of habit or tradition, much like your Uncle Bob's annual reenactment of 'A Christmas Carol.' Pause and reconsider the necessity.

Can We Combine It with Others, Like a Potluck Feast?

Just as cranberry sauce pairs well with turkey, some meetings might blend harmoniously. Merge those agendas and save time for everyone!

Can It Happen Less Frequently, Like Reindeer Appearances?

Not every meeting needs to be a weekly occurrence. Embrace the magic of spacing them out to keep the holiday spirit alive.

Can We Do It in Less Time, like a Speed-Wrapped Present or a Gift Bag Express?

Challenge yourself to trim the meeting fat. Set a timer—get your point across before Rudolph finishes his annual flight.

Can Fewer People Attend, Keeping It Cozy?

Just like a snug fireside chat, not everyone needs a seat at every meeting. Invite only those who truly need to be there.

How Can We Manage It Better, Like Santa's Workshop?

Elves have their systems down—let's learn from them. Streamline agendas, set clear objectives, and be as efficient as Santa on Christmas Eve.

Conclusion: Unwrapping the Gift of Time

This holiday season let's gift ourselves, and others, the present of fewer, better-managed meetings. And to our beloved policy administrators tirelessly ensuring order in this festive chaos—take a break, too! Even elves pause for hot cocoa. By reevaluating our meeting habits and giving our hardworking teams the gift of time, we can sleigh the holiday season with efficiency and joy. If you are looking for a good relaxing read, check out the last blog post by Sara Gigeroff, University of New Brunswick Reigniting Professional Passions through Policy Related Professional Development.

And that’s a wrap! Thank you to my ACUPA colleagues for a wonderful year of knowledge and sharing.