[ Rules ]

Rules give structure and set expectations.  A rule, even those we don’t understand or like, at least helps to set the boundaries.

However, upon entering a new space, or joining a new group, or starting a new project, I think being faced with a whole list of rules, of ‘don’ts’, of restrictions and cautions, isn’t very welcoming. 

I noticed this going into a restaurant recently.  A whole string of signs cautioned us on the way in of what not to do. It was an odd welcome. 

Here’s a rule:  if you’re on the welcoming committee, don’t start with the don’ts.