Change is Hard. Let’s do it Together.

As much as I know it’s primarily a function of capitalism, I often feel compelled to make resolutions in a new year. Despite plenty of evidence that most of our resolutions will fail within just a few weeks of declaring them, there remains something alluring about making some kind of huge change that will lead to a better, happier, more productive (a concept very much worth critiquing) self. It makes sense—there’s hope, optimism, and a sense of possibility that comes with setting goals and starting anew. And who couldn’t use a little extra hope right now? The reality, of course, is that change is hard. The kind of change we seek in “big R” resolutions—often drastic and long-lasting—can be even harder.

We could consider, then, how to make it less likely that we will fail in seeing our resolutions through. There is no shortage of expert advice and (surprise!) things you can buy to help make sure you stay committed to your goals—tracking tools, accountability buddies, tomato timers. All of these things can help, and I have (and will continue to, I’m sure) use them in various ways in my work and personal life.

But what if this year we focus less on ourselves and more on each other? In We Do This ’Til We Free Us, Mariame Kaba reminds us that “everything worthwhile is done with others.” There is a fantastic video of Judith Butler and Sunaura Taylor discussing the interconnectedness of gender and disability in which Butler asks, “Do we or do we not live in a world in which we assist each other? Do we or do we not help each other with basic needs? I want to organize a social, political world on the basis of that recognition.” I am encouraged when I imagine 2024 as a year where we strive to embrace our interconnectivity, prioritize our collectivity, and where we care about one another and care for one another in the best ways we can.

And what if this year we commit less to resolutions and more to being resolute? Resolute in our commitment to creating the kind of learning and working environments in which we can all show up as fully ourselves (really, truly) and be welcomed. Our work is taxing, and further compounded by the reality that our lived experiences are often directly implicated in and certainly impacted by that work. The resulting burnout is almost to be expected. To remain resolute in the face of such challenge is, well, challenging. Part of how I believe we do this is by approaching our work with deliberateness and not letting the urgent get in the way of the important. I am enlivened when I imagine 2024 as a year where we are unwavering in our dedication to our mission and in our desire to seeing our community thrive.

Caring for each other and remaining resolute are priorities that will guide OIDI through this year. In this spirit, you will see increased efforts to hold space for our community including OIDI office hours and community building circle practice. You will also see the launch of new programs including the Mediation, Conflict Resolution, and Restorative Practices (MCR) Initiative and innovative offerings from our IDEA education and training team.

However you choose to bring in a new year, we support you. And we are so looking forward to working, learning, and being together with you in 2024 and beyond.