Use this Circle Facilitator Guide with teams and organization members to explore the intersections of conflict and (dis)connection within your community.
Welcome to the Space of the Circle.
MINDFULNESS MOMENT Pause, breathe, and listen to the sound. Ground yourself in this space by placing your feet firmly on the ground and feeling the connection under your sole. Feel your lower back rest on your seat and your chest expand as you breathe. Prepare yourself to enter a separate space from the hustle and bustle of the rest of your day.
INTRODUCE "ROUNDS" A "round" is a pass of the talking piece around the Circle. The keeper poses a question and, as a participant, may answer first. The keeper then passes the talking piece to the person to their left or right (or names the next person over Zoom). On the first round, participants are invited to say their name and pronouns as well as respond to the question. Remember, it is always okay for a participant to pass.
Remind the group of Circle values and guidelines. These can be ones established in previous circles or be created new each time with new participants. Some helpful sharing guidelines may include:
Share what you feel comfortable sharing.
Respect the talking piece
You can pass at any time.
Be mindful of time.
Respect the privacy of those sharing.
Trust intent/name impact
Use “I” statements
Speak from the heart/listen from the heart
Be here now
Prioritize connection before content
Be both teachers and learners
Have fun!
ROUND Share your name, pronouns and what brought you to this circle today.
ROUND What is a time or a place where you feel most connected to yourself and others?
SMALL GROUP/PAIR SHARE ROUNDS:
Round 1: How do you define conflict?
Round 2: What is your typical response to conflict? Maybe thinking of a recent example will help.
Round 3: How does this response impact your feeling of connection to others or even yourself?
LEARN The Central Blueprint:
ROUND What are ways you can maximize positive affect, minimize negative affect, and freely express emotion when experiencing conflict?
CHECK-OUT ROUND What is a practice or mindset that you want to focus on in the coming weeks that will allow you to feel more connected?
CLOSING Prepare yourself to leave this separate space and go into the rest of your day. Pause, breathe, and listen to the sound.
Thank everyone for participating in the Circle!