THE COLLECTIVE WAY
We believe what a person values so drives their behavior. These core fundamental values are what we strive to guide our behaviors. Each member of the 402 Arts Collective has committed to putting these thirty core fundamental values into practice in their everyday lives. Each set of values is organized under three themes: Community, Service, and Growth
COMMUNITY
It’s an easy thing to write down on a paper that we “value community.” It is a different thing altogether to create a culture that values community. In most of our lives, we have grown accustomed to a typical way of life that one could call “Transactional.” This transactional way of life is noticeable all around us. Much like the package delivery business that has recently boomed in the past seven years, a shopper gives a certain amount of money to a merchant to then ship an item to your doorstep. Billions of dollars are spent every year. This type of service-oriented model will never replace the community model. When we say “community” is one of our core values, it means:
We invite artists into the 402 Arts Collective to find a new network to do business or to provide or receive a new service.
We invite artists to come help build something that addresses systemic issues both industry-wide and individually.
We invite artists to help create a true community.
In a community, the complex becomes simple. Overwhelming becomes attainable, and impossible becomes possible. We believe that there are four key ingredients to building community.
1. Kindness
‘Nice’ is what you call someone who holds the door for you. ‘Kindness’ is a deeper level of nice. It indicates a deeper level of compassion and empathy that goes beyond polite behavior.
2. Trust
Trust is the cornerstone of practically all aspects of working in a community with others. Trust is built on a triangle of authenticity, logic, and empathy. When trust is a core value, everyone is working hard on the task at hand without feeling the need to put their guard up and spend energy on protecting themselves.
3. Relationship
The 402 Arts Collective exists exclusively in a sphere of relationships. Therefore we must consider it one of our most important core values. Irrespective of people’s differences, one can find their place in this community and help foster it all at the same time when they are willing to invest and build relationships.
4. Respect
Respect goes beyond being someone who smiles at someone when they pass by. Respect means that no matter what background, opinions, or position, we treat all the same based on the basic value of life.
SERVICE
Being service-minded is something that is not something you do without intention. Valuing service means that you are aiming to provide a positive and meaningful experience to everyone you serve and support. Simply put, this is all about putting others before yourself and intentionally making decisions and actions that benefit others.
5. Excellence
This core value behavior of Excellence focuses on achieving the highest possible standards of performance and quality. Doing the best you can do with the skills you have is a testament to how much you care about those you serve.
6. Commitment
When someone says they are going to do something it means they will do it. Your “yes means yes, and your no means no.” This can also be thought of as a personal “pledge” to something or someone you believe in. Commitment is not to be taken lightly. Mental resilience and stamina are needed for this, especially in the face of adversity.
7. Ownership
Sometimes referred to as “Extreme Ownership” this value emphasizes taking full responsibility for one’s actions and outcomes. We are called to take full ownership of decisions, communication, performance, and presentation, no matter the outcome.
8. Empathy
This is the ability to understand and share the feelings of others. Being there for someone emotionally is the foundation of solid relationships that allow us to connect with others on a deeper level.
GROWTH
Growth is a core value that focuses on the importance of learning and personal development. This core value is shown by embracing new challenges, improving one’s skills and knowledge, as well as seeking out opportunities to learn and develop. We believe everyone has the opportunity and need to grow in some area in their life. We seek to create environments for each member to pursue personal growth in multiple facets of who they are. This includes professional growth, personal growth, or artistic growth.
9. Responsibility
Be accountable - think about the consequences on yourself and others likely to be affected before you act. Be someone you can count on. Do what you need to do. Take full ownership of the consequences of the choices you make. Don’t make excuses or take credit for other people’s work.
10. Communication
Communication is a circle, not a one-way street. This is an essential part of everyone’s life. From personal relationships to our professional interactions, being able to communicate effectively is key for all facets of our lives. Yet, most of us struggle in this area. Clear communication can help build relationships, resolve conflict, express ideas, and help yourself and others achieve goals.
11. Courage
This is the value that gives us the moral and mental strength to do what is right, with confidence, and resolution, even in the face of temptation, fear, or adversity.
12. Hope
Hope is perhaps the most important value in the ‘Growth’ category. Hope is not the twisting of the fingers, or wishing upon a star. This value is what gives you the sturdy strength and courage to face anything that stands in your way. It is the belief in a better ‘to come’ than your current circumstance. Authentic Hope provides the fuel to enter into perilous circumstances that defy all odds. It is at the heart of all charitable work. Anything else is done through self-preservation.
THE COLLECTIVE WAY SURVEY
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