Originally posted at The Rurban Fringe (www.therurbanfringe.com) March 26, 2012.

Earlier this month, I had the opportunity to participate in a workshop led by Paul Born, community engagement thought leader and co-founder of Tamarack – An Institute for Community Engagement.

We discussed why some engagement strategies succeed and why others fail. How to encourage meaningful community conversations. The importance of asking the right questions. And how change is about more than just you.

Think about that last statement for a moment … change is about more than just you.

When discussing change, we all too often get caught up in what we need to do to in order to make a difference. But to address the complex issues that make up a community – housing, social services, recreation, or employment, for instance – we must work with others … and need to expect them to change, as well.

I’ll be the first to admit that it’s not easy. In fact, it’s like trying to steer the speedboat that’s towing you as you water-ski. In order to keep moving, stay safe, and have fun, you need to communicate to the boat driver and expect them to respond.

It’s the same in our communities.

In order to provide effective, essential services, offer vibrant, recreational opportunities, or ensure diverse and affordable housing options, we need each stakeholder to work together – to monitor community response and change how they might be doing things – just a little bit. And if every stakeholder changed just a little bit to help your community reach an important goal … imagine the outcome.

Are you trying to water-ski all by yourself?

How can a small change by you – or others – help you reach your goal?