history

Work That Matters

If somebody went before us and could not sustain their effort, it might inform our attempt, but it should not discourage us from exploring options. Many first ascents of mountain summits result from mountaineers returning repeatedly to attempt new routes, bringing additional gear, or being armed with knowledge about overcoming obstacles that once thwarted their efforts. We may encounter historical records of their presence, equipment left in place, names attached to geographic and geologic features, and tales about wading into the unknown.

How might we benefit from the lessons learned but not adopt the mindset of inevitability when approaching a barrier yet to be unlocked? How might we honor the efforts of those who proceeded without setting a course to repeat their actions? How might we bring our own approach to the puzzle? How might we step back at least one magnitude before diving into the work?

Connecting Over History

Barbie: The Exhibition is currently on display at the London Design Museum. It is a retrospective of Barbie’s life from her invention in 1959 to the present day. One of the palpable parts of the experience is how many adults find themselves reliving their childhood as they walk between the galleries. Common refrains include,’ I had that Barbie, my friend had that outfit, we still have that Dream House.’ There is a combination of nostalgia and renaissance, aide by the return of Barbie to a greater social consciousness after the Barbie (2023) movie.

What history connects your fans with your enterprise. Is it a person, event, program, decision, structure, critical communication, disaster, or service? What focuses your fans on the events of the past?

Preserved
Sir Ernest Shackleton’s Hut in Antarctica
byu/solateor inDamnthatsinteresting

The preserved parts of our history are like shards of glass, scattered pieces of a vessel that once was a single container. The parts can be assembled to provide a glimpse into the past, but they cannot tell the whole story. What we choose to preserve often leaves many questions. How might we provide context for the time capsules we assemble for those that follow?