Data visualizations help me see bigger schemas. I have learned to develop an easy chart, highlighting projects, my personal participation, and how I can ask for help through partnership(s). This is (tentatively) called the 3P chart.
This is due in part to my shifting schedule. As I transition from class to work, social groups and my relationship to time by myself, these projects amplify my days and overall spirit. Instead of being reduced to details, this data visualization helps me see bigger themes within the days. I am motivated by the get-er-done attitude that comes from a project.
| Project | Personal Role(s) | Partner’s Role(s) |
| It’s a “no” for me | Have hard conversations | Schedule meetings with bosses |
| Women+Film Luncheon | Ask to lead volunteers | Meet with volunteer coordinator |
| Our Table | Make connections with church and community | Research local area |
| Womxn in Progress | Make a trackable webpage and automation | Connect with LLC and contract experts |
The first project here is about an eternal struggle: Saying nah, when “yes” is inherent, easier, and (sometimes) more fun. Rebranding “no” as a project, I started with smaller, less consequential naysaying to get a little used to it. These nos were often about socializing, so the introvert in me was pleased. The people-pleaser less so. This practice ultimately led to big ones: I am resigning from multiple roles, jumping all into library and information science within the next few weeks!
After a decade of marketing, I am closing this chapter of my career. It’s scary and vulnerable and anticipatory and exciting, all at once. I have big dreams for this library and information science degree. One of them is researching and creating restorative practices to end dementia through systemic changes and interdisciplinary collaborations across media, information organization, biology, psychology, and more. And so saying “no” to marketing but “yes” to research, archives, and libraries is also opening the door for what’s to come, including:
I had the distinct honor to lead the volunteers at Denver Film’s annual Women+Film Luncheon. After 3 years of supporting panels, presentations, and other public events, I initiated a conversation to lead this slightly more private event, and it was a smashing success! Making people (mainly womxn!) feel welcome and part of something artistic and altruistic is so on brand for me, a film student (during undegrad), feminist, and film fam. Check out my values statement here and see how this Barbie loves amplifying female voices:
Continuing with on-brand decision making, I am making strides at my church for community outreach activities. Some projects are what friends suggested I do, such as digitizing the libraries, but I still do not want to work alone (and I am super-proud of myself for sharing this fact right away). Other activities are collaborative. I hope to take what I have learned from my previous experience in leading a church-based food pantry, but I am also realistic in differences between life in CO and WI. Recognizing I cannot do anything alone is essential in making this chart. I love feedback and having as many perspectives as possible to engage and meet people where they are!
Such collaboration leads me to an ongoing project of transforming Womxn in Progress, as well as my ideas for restoration through storytelling and archiving. Happily, I am making connections with fellow DU students and staff, friends from undergrad, and even KaylieLongley.com readers to make both of these site projects happen. Balancing both quiet, behind the scenes work with my excitement over these changes is difficult, but I am trying.
How about you, what do you use to structure your work, values, and collaborations? Do any my projects enrich or excite you? If you have feedback or would like to learn more, comments are always welcome!