The Journey of Onward Shift

Have you ever started something with immense passion, only to find yourself lost along the way? Perhaps the vision that was once so clear became clouded, leaving you wondering if you should press on or let go. If this resonates with you, know that you’re not alone. I’ve been there too.

In my last LinkedIn post, I touched on the challenges of getting Onward Shift off the ground. It’s been a whirlwind of emotions, doubts and self reflection. At times, I lost sight of what I wanted it to be and what I hoped to achieve but over the past few weeks, I’ve taken the time to pause, reassess and realign my goals for this initiative. 

Now, I’m ready to share where I see Onward Shift heading and why I’m more passionate about it than ever!

The Vision Behind Onward Shift

When I first envisioned Onward Shift, I thought about the construction industry. An industry I’ve been part of for 15 years. It’s a world of grit, determination and relentless hard work but beyond the bricks and beams, there’s a vibrant community of individuals with unique stories, struggles and triumphs.

Initially, I thought Onward Shift should focus on supporting specific causes within the industry but after much reflection, I realised its purpose runs deeper. It’s not about championing one cause it’s about championing the construction community as a whole. It’s about:

• Giving everyone a voice.
• Ensuring every individual feels seen and valued.
• Creating a safe, inclusive space where stories are shared without judgement.

No matter who you are, where you come from, or what you look like, your story matters and through Onward Shift, I want to create a sense of belonging and unity within the construction world.

Shifting the Narrative

The construction industry often gets a bad rap. 

People highlight the negatives harsh working conditions, mental health challenges and systemic issues. While these are real and deserve attention, I’ve decided to take a different approach. I want Onward Shift to shine a spotlight on the positives on the resilience, camaraderie and sheer determination that define this industry.

The construction community is one of the kindest and hardest working groups I’ve ever encountered and been fortunate to be apart of. We have each other’s backs, especially during tough times. It’s time to show the world just how incredible we are!

Creating a Platform for Connection

Onward Shift aims to be a hub where everyone in the construction industry can connect, share and grow. Whether you’re a public speaker, coach, event organiser or someone with a story to tell, there’s a place for you here. This isn’t just about highlighting achievements; it’s about creating a non judgemental environment where every voice is heard and valued.

Let’s consider the diversity of stories within the industry. Think about the individual who’s worked their way up from an apprentice to a site manager, or the project manager who has navigated the complexities of large scale builds. Think about the labourer who shows up every day with unwavering dedication or the architect who’s poured their creativity into designs that shape skylines. Each of these individuals has a unique narrative that deserves to be told.

So, if you have a story to share, an event to promote, or expertise that can uplift the community, let’s chat and connect. Together, we can build a supportive ecosystem that thrives on collaboration and mutual respect.

Addressing Challenges Through Community

Let’s not shy away from the challenges they’re an integral part of the construction narrative. Mental health issues, for example, are prevalent in the industry. Long hours, physically demanding tasks and the pressure to meet tight deadlines can take a toll but instead of viewing these challenges as insurmountable, Onward Shift sees them as opportunities to create dialogue and provide support.

By sharing stories of resilience, we can normalise discussions around mental health and encourage individuals to seek help when needed. Imagine a platform where someone can read about a fellow worker’s journey through burnout and recovery and feel inspired to take their first step towards healing. That’s the kind of impact Onward Shift aims to have.

Celebrating Wins, Big and Small

In an industry that’s often focused on the next project or deadline, it’s easy to overlook the wins but celebrating achievements, no matter how small, is essential for morale and motivation. Through Onward Shift, I want to create a culture of recognition where milestones are celebrated and individuals feel appreciated for their contributions.

Think about the pride of completing a challenging project or the satisfaction of mentoring a new hire and seeing them succeed. These moments deserve to be highlighted, not just within the construction community but also in the broader public eye. By showcasing these stories, we can redefine how people perceive the industry and its people.

Looking Ahead to 2025

In 2025, I’m filled with excitement for what lies ahead. Onward Shift will undergo significant transformations. These changes reflect the feedback and insights I’ve gathered over the past 7 months and represent my commitment to making Onward Shift a space that genuinely serves the construction community.

One of the key initiatives for the coming year is the launch of a series of workshops and events designed to empower individuals in the industry. From mental health seminars to skill-building workshops, these events will be tailored to address the unique needs of the construction community. 

Whether you’re looking to improve your leadership skills or find strategies for work-life balance, there will be something for everyone.

Additionally, I’m exploring partnerships with organisations that share Onward Shift’s vision of inclusivity and support. By collaborating with like-minded groups, we can amplify our impact and reach even more individuals.

Every Story Matters!

I can’t stress this enough: every story matters. Your experiences, whether big or small, have the power to inspire and connect. In the construction industry, where challenges often feel insurmountable, sharing our journeys can be a beacon of hope for others.

If you’ve ever felt isolated or undervalued, know that Onward Shift is here for you. This platform isn’t just about highlighting success stories; it’s about embracing vulnerability and authenticity. It’s about recognising that our shared struggles make us stronger as a community.

Imagine a space where you can share your challenges and triumphs without fear of judgement. A space where your voice is not only heard but celebrated. That’s the vision for Onward Shift.

How You Can Get Involved

Whether you’ve been in the industry for decades or your new there are countless ways to contribute to Onward Shift:

1. Share Your Story: Your experiences can inspire others and create a sense of belonging.
2. Host or Promote Events: Let’s create opportunities for learning, networking and growth.
3. Offer Support: Whether it’s through mentorship, coaching, or lending a listening ear, every effort counts.
4. Spread the Word: Help us grow this community by sharing Onward Shift with your network.

Additionally, I encourage you to think about the ways you can uplift those around you. Perhaps it’s through a simple gesture, like acknowledging a co-worker’s hard work, or something more involved, like organising a team building activity. Every action, no matter how small, contributes to a culture of support and appreciation.

Building a Brighter Future Together

The construction industry is more than just an occupation it’s a way of life. It’s about people coming together to build something greater than themselves.

Through Onward Shift, I hope to amplify this spirit of unity and collaboration.

Let’s make 2025 the year we redefine what it means to be part of the construction community. Let’s celebrate our wins, support each other through challenges and show the world just how remarkable we are!