What moving furniture taught me about psychological safety
2022-03-15
The weekend before last, I helped my brother and sister-in-law move furniture and prepare their home for new carpet. Along the way I got an inside view of how they collaborate.
My favorite moment came when one of her moving ideas didn't work and she joked, "I lied to you." My brother didn't say, "I told you so." They both chuckled and kept teaming.
The magic started when she recognized her idea had failed and playfully self-deprecated. I have never had as much fun moving furniture.
Some research says moving is more stressful than divorce. That may be an exaggeration, but I know this: like great relationships, innovative environments are built on psychological safety, vulnerability, self-deprecation, and failing forward.
Unsurprisingly, they celebrated their 23rd anniversary that Sunday.
I thank my brother and sister-in-law for sharing their always-growing love with me, and I congratulate them again.
Until next time, I wish you much love and fun in your relationships.
First published on LinkedIn, 15 March 2022. Lightly revised. Original post.