Jan 30, 2024
In this blog post, we are excited to share how Chipman Design Architecture (CDA) is actively shaping our future. As we begin 2024, our team, under the guidance of our CEO Lauren Chipman, and HR Director Bree Burkett have thoughtfully planned a year-long series of Town Hall meetings. Held weekly, these are more than just meetings; they are a vibrant platform for connection, discussion, and growth.
Each month, we spotlight a specific theme, carefully chosen to resonate with both our collective and individual aspirations. For instance, this month at CDA, our Town Halls have been centered around the crucial theme of “Goal Setting.” It's not just about discussing goals; it’s about creating a collaborative space where we share insights, learn from each other, and understand the art of setting achievable goals.
By reflecting on both new perspectives and revisiting foundational principles, we are continuously evolving, ensuring that every step we take is a stride towards excellence.
Microhabits
Our first week introduced the concept of Microhabits: small, manageable components of a larger habit. The strategy involves a break down ambitious goals into smaller, more achievable tasks, over a longer period of time.
Our team separated into multiple breakout rooms, fostering a community of shared aspirations by outlining personal and professional goals in smaller groups. This collaborative effort was a prelude to an insightful presentation.
Key aspects of the presentation included:
· IDENTIFY: Pinpoint a ridiculously small micro habit
· PIGGYBACK: Attach it to an existing daily task
· TRACK: Monitor your progress
· STEADY: Maintain consistency over a prolonged period
· HELP: Seek support to remain accountable
2024 Goals – Growing Together
The second week featured a presentation titled "2024 Goals – Growing Together", focusing on fostering a culture of proactive thinking and pride in work. Key points included critical thinking, asking questions instead of making assumptions, bringing solutions to the table, and the importance of checking one's work as a matter of professional and personal pride.
Firm Health Initiative
In the third week, CDA introduced the "Firm Health Initiative," led by Senior Account Manager Juan Castillo. This plan aims to promote and motivate healthy living within the firm. It emphasized the 'WHY' of being active, not giving up on health goals, and supporting overall well-being. The initiative encourages sharing health tips, activity announcements, and educational information. It also promotes social interaction among colleagues and utilizing resources on CDA's intranet, focusing on wellness and a shared calendar for planning events.
Guest Speaker Danny O’Malley
January’s theme culminated in the fourth week featuring special guest speaker, Danny O'Malley, who co-directed the documentary movie, “Canary, The Fight for Our Future Begins at 18,000ft.” This documentary focuses on scientist, Dr. Lonnie Thompson who has been studying the evidence of global warming since the1970s.
Danny discussed his journey around the challenges in producing the documentary, including financial and seemingly impossible logistical hurdles. To make things even more difficult, the filming crew had to rigorously train for high-altitude conditions so they could survive the lower oxygen environment fora long period of time during the expedition.
“It’s easier to swim with the stream. It’s easier to go with the flow. It’s easier to do what you’re told. When you step out of that, it gets hard really fast.”
Danny attributed his success in completing the documentary to believing in the story he wanted to tell, and committing to his vision, underscoring the month's theme of goal setting.
“When you commit to the goals, it changes your life. It makes things possible.”
Conclusion:
Through this series of Town Hall meetings, the firm not only explored various facets of goal setting but also fostered a culture of collaboration, health, and environmental consciousness, aligning perfectly with its ethos in the realms of architecture and design.
Chipman Design Architecture (WBE) is a people-first, family-owned senior living, retail, and hospitality, architecture firm composed of innovators, architects, and interior designers who love collaborating, breaking boundaries, and creating spaces for tomorrow. For over forty years, the firm has separated themselves with a focus on the future inregard to organizational structure, customer experience and fostering community. With corporate headquarters in Chicago, and five additional national offices, Chipman Design provides interior design, experiential design, and architectural expertise throughout North America. Today, the firm’s Principal team, led by third generation family member, and CEO, Lauren Chipman, offers innovation and professionalism through complete architectural and interior design services. Through membership in the U.S. Green Building Council, the firm’s commitment to sustainability and lowering energy consumption continues to reinforce recognition of the critical role of architects in today’s world.
