“Trust in the power of people,” was the message of the annual FP&P Lifelong Learning Event last week. At Parnassia aan Zee, we gathered with clients, partners and (former) participants. A cordial gathering of people who faced inspiration together, made acquaintance and shared knowledge. All with a festive touch. In fact, FP&P is celebrating its 40th anniversary! And that had to be celebrated.
Indeed, in these forty years, it is not only the company itself that has evolved, but also the ideology that is the common thread of our existence: making the world around us a better place. The many attendees were taken through the dream that started it all. The ambitious mission we all support, but which can only be achieved through a lot of love, passion and dedication. From full faith in the strength of our fellow world-citizens. Something our guest speaker Mart de Kruif could relate to like no other.
During his role as a lieutenant general in the Royal Army, Mart experienced the best and worst sides of human kind. In the dunes of Parnassia, we discussed some essential themes. We spoke about taking risks, standing up for choices and experiencing consequences. And about leadership based on trust. Not only in yourself, but also in others. An inspiring message that is more integrated into our lives than it may seem at first glance.
Indeed, according to Mart de Kruif, it is not the individual but the collective that can make the most impact. But that does not come easily; it requires trust. And trust involves letting go. To take a collective to the next level and perform better, a leader’s role is to prepare the group well, be clear in the “what” and “why” but leave room in the “how. Prepare, organize, and plan… but don’t micromanage too much. Learn to trust in the strength of humans and “leave no man behind” when the going gets tough. From this commitment and belief, magical results can be achieved, a real difference can be made. An insight to which we fully subscribe.
Our thanks go out to all who attended. We look back on a fantastic day. We hope to see you back in our office soon, or in one of the training sessions or masterclasses. Together we are stronger, let’s keep learning from each other!
