I promise to do my best...

**1. Hierarchy rules.**

Even in a group of girls who don't really understand rules, they understand the concept of leadership. Each group has four "sixes" and these "sixes" have a leader (called a "sixer", I honestly have no idea why) and a second in command. To all intents and purposes, it doesn't mean anything, but the way these girls were overjoyed to be a leader of their little group was so lovely. It is exactly the same at work, giving people a small area to be completely in control of inspires aspiration, allows for better organisation AND they got a nice little badge to go on their sash (the equivalent of adding something to their LinkedIn bio).

**2. Diversity is most valuable when everyone walks into the room equal.**

Half the girls in my Fulham unit were at prestigious private schools, some were at local state schools and a couple barely made it to school at all- but every Wednesday for 90 minutes they wore the same uniform, were treated identically and received the same, their background was largely irrelevant to the room, partly because they were 7 years old, and partly because they were unable to distinguish between each other outside the room. I wish so often that I could recreate that atmosphere and the equality of treatment that we had there, but the office is tougher. It doesn't mean I don't endeavour to do so (see previous newsletters on not having favourites…)

**3. Actions form habits, habits form character.**

An old adage from Aristotle, but one of my favourites. The character that girl guiding institutes in the young women is admirable, but it is predominantly based on habits. Whether that's reciting the same songs and promise at the beginning of each session, having the tenets on the wall, testing them on the rules of guiding, or generally just placing emphasis on recitation, there is a lot to be said for an institution codifying its values. It's something I think Amazon and big corporates do really well, but there's no reason that any team can't codify how they want to work. A small example but on Slack we have a Friday shoutout channel, and the habit of reminding oneself to shout out those people is an important part of our culture.

**4. Learn how to lead a game at Brownies and you can lead any room.**

I cannot tell you how many times I've played dolphins and narwhals. It's a very loud game with lots of running and the girls: love. It. However, it makes the vibration in the room tangible; they absolutely do not want to listen and the adrenaline surge is untameable. There is nothing other than experience, patience and a lesson in projection that can teach you to lead a gaggle.

**5. Have more than work.**

Sounds stupid, hey. Of course you have more than work, you go out, you do things, you see people. There's something about volunteering that will give you a gift I guarantee can't be replaced in any other forum. If you have a skill, share it, but whether it's joining the PTA, being on the end of the line at the Samaritans or just doing a local litterpick, you will not regret giving back. You'll also be amazed at how supportive workplaces are of volunteering commitments.