Practices to Foster Significant Conversations

1. Listen Be aware of filters Be open to meeting and being changed by the Other Speak Stop before your start to talk: Speak if you feel moved to speak; do not speak if you do not feel moved to speak (M. Scott Peck); do not withhold yourself No speeches Inquire -- Suspend assumptions Open to alternative perspectives Question “what everybody knows” or “how we do things around here Reflect -- Suspend action Examine experience in a manner that is both critical and appreciative Validity = resonance found in consensus Complete and accurate information; willingness to weigh evidence and evaluate arguments Environment free of coercion and self-deception Collegiality Equal opportunity to participate Equal power Practices to Foster Significant Conversations Falcarragh Institute, Ltd. 6230 Lower Mountain Road, New Hope, PA 18938 215-862-9254

2. Detachment Time -- Slow down; leave the clock behind Space -- Not the usual locale Physical and psychological isolation; separated from daily life, routines, responsibilities, pressures, etc. Continuity Time to think, reflect, and talk with others -- without interruption Mindful of the Transcendent Beyond ego Power and purpose larger than me Open to Emergence Expect surprise, unpredictability Let go of controlling both process and outcomes Trust Starts with a willingness Stand your own ground while being open to the Other Initial Conditions for Significant Conversations Falcarragh Institute, Ltd. 6230 Lower Mountain Road, New Hope, PA 18938 215-862-9254