Participation Over Performance

So much success in our world seems to be based on performance and achievement. We are rated and esteemed based on how well we do in education, work, sporting groups and even social interactions. Performance based thinking leads to people believing we first need to prove our value to be considered valuable.

Unfortunately, many of our Streetlevel community have learnt they simply ‘don’t measure up’ to the world’s standards. Weary of failure, many stop trying to get that job, make that friend or learn something new. They believe the story the world tells them; they are of no real worth or value.

At Streetlevel, we believe every person is valuable and worthy of inclusion regardless of their performance credentials. Two of the programs I facilitate embody this so well. Art Group is a wonderful time of painting, chatting and connecting. All levels of ability are welcome. Knitting Group is a space for people who have knitted for years or never held knitting needles before. 

These groups are not at all about performance. It’s participation that is encouraged. We bring stories and laughter to share over cups of tea. It’s a space to engage, connect and know you can simply bring what you have… and that’s enough. We learn to enjoy the process and experience, trusting we’re in a safe space with no judgment. I love seeing people take joy in slapping paint around, realizing colours can somehow match their mood, feeling safe to ask for help picking up a dropped stitch… or not (holes can be fun). Importantly, each individual recognises themselves as a key member of the group. They belong.

It’s a soft start to unlearning what the world has taught them, but I love observing people taking tentative steps towards ‘just trying’ and learning that they’re enough. Accepted. Valuable.