Becoming fluent with using The Tools requires practice. Practice requires opportunities and I’ll emphasize the notion that informal, day-to-day transactions as well as more formal meetings and events are just such opportunities.
And, while we are in the early stages it makes sense to work with a colleague from the cohort whenever possible as then you both will have taken the class and have a common language.
So your activity is to reach out to a cohort member to arrange for both of you to act as each other’s support person for an event you will ‘design and do’ using The Tools before the next class. You’ll need to be quick of the mark as there is just one week before the next class.
Post your reflections about this practice session in the comment section below using the reflection questions that also come from The Tools.
They are: –
- What went well, and, especially, what did you do well (self-appreciation)?
- What was difficult and challenging and what would you do differently next time?
1. What went well, and, especially, what did you do well (self-appreciation)?
In my practice sessions, keeping time and asking good attention questions went well. I felt like I was able to maintain presence and actively listen to the best of my ability.
2. What was difficult and challenging and what would you do differently next time?
It was difficult to figure out what to share and talk about. It was challenging to let myself speak as my real self instead I found myself editing my speech and way of talking to appear more professional and appropriate at times in fear of judgement. It has been challenging getting comfortable talking with others in my course as I do not feel comfortable engaging or sharing about my personal life. Next time, I’d like to spend 5-10mins before our ‘think & listen’ sessions to build rapport.
1) What went well, and, especially, what did you do well (self-appreciation)?
During my practice sessions I’ve always felt they went well. My partners and I seem to be wanting to honor the process and each other.
2) What was difficult and challenging and what would you do differently next time?
I still find it difficult to not want to comfort or validate my partner while they are speaking.