Catalytic

(English) This is an essay. It expresses the opinions and ideas of some Wikimedians but may not have wide support. This is not policy on Meta, but it may be a policy or guideline on other Wikimedia projects. Feel free to update this page as needed, or use the discussion page to propose major changes.

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Being catalytic is an etiquette concept not formally documented and difficult to enforce, and specifically bearing little rewards as it — normally — happens naturally, and is difficult to distinguish or spot.

Be relaxed. When you find yourself unable to handle a situation, approach someone else lightly who can.
- For example, if someone leaves a message, you don't have to write back when they seem upset; instead, give them time to cool off and then write back.
Be open-minded. Investigate other people's motivations and build on them.
Be attentive to detail. Work in the root, not its consequences.
Look for positive traits. Where someone appears to be doing something wrong, look for other activities that may be attractive or satisfy the the person's goals better.
Do things where they belong. When someone is rude, tell them at their talk page, not in the middle of a discussion where they raised valid points (even if put rudely) which need discussion. Don't lose the thread.

When something needs to be done, make steps, reasonably small and balanced, to get it done.
Assuming good faith?. Don't play too much. If a newcomer is in good faith, he will follow a timely hint; there is no need to hand-hold and do more work for them than catalyzing needs.