I believe that everyone works by guiding principles, even if they don’t make them explicit. The principles listed here are what I stand for and what people can expect of me.
Prioritize collaboration. I build meaningful working relationships with my community as the first step to building anything else. When my teammates and I care enough about each other to resolve conflicts, communicate effectively, and move toward the same goal, the work we do is excellent.
Say the quiet part out loud. My goal when I communicate with people is to reach clarity and understanding. I avoid making assumptions or using euphemistic language in favor of asking open-ended questions and checking my understanding via summary.
Be humble. When I don’t know something, I say so. I prioritize sharing my work early, and I have cultivated comfort with the mess of my process. I ask for feedback on my work and my partnership often. I take time every day to think about my own motives and reflect on my decisions.
Do work I’m proud of. I make good things! The work I do serves real needs and makes the world better. I am proactive and engaged throughout any project to ensure that the results meet those standards.