Co-creation is about being in the same boat
“When we are in the same boat, draw upon our differences and offer support to one another throughout our shared adventure towards a common goal.”
This sketch is a metaphor, an idealized idea of what I see as one of the central tenets of co-creation. Being in the same boat is about sharing, sharing the space, be it a physical space of space of ideas, sharing the effort, challenges, and moments of joy. But before we embark on this shared journey, we need to find a common goal, so we can steer our boat towards it, and it must be a “place” where each of us wants to go. There might be different dynamics, one might be better at contributing through the physical work, like paddling, while another takes on the role of navigating, ensuring the boat charts a course free of obstacles. Our differences offer unique perspectives and, when acknowledged and respected, help to advance our journey together. These roles may not be fixed, they are adaptable to changing circumstances, and the ability to adjust and renegotiate them ensures the sustainability of our collaborative efforts and mutual learning. At the heart of this journey is our commitment to actively listening to each other and supporting each other in our shared adventure.
