14 Comments

This was the most useful article on change that I have read in a long time! Helped me to rethink some things I am planning. Thank you!

Expand full comment

Awesome! Thanks.

Expand full comment

Thanks Renee - this quote feels so true ‘We are in a collective global moment of figuring out, testing and experimenting with ways of bringing people together for impact.’

I live and work in a part of the world that is outside of the corridor of ‘work hours’ for the Global North as well as being physically remote. Convening in, or from Perth/Boorloo throws many challenges - especially when proximity can be so important for many gatherings.

The points you raise about experimenting with how to bring people together are a necessity when your nearest centre of influence is a four hour plane trip away. This relative isolation also makes a necessity of care and community - foundations that allow us to muck around and play with new possibilities for coming together.

Expand full comment

Renee I was absolutely glued to this piece whilst boarding a flight this morning, I couldn’t put my phone down! 😂 All of this really needed to be said, thank you 🙌

I’m wondering if you have any tips for attendees on how to assess/choose events with these factors in mind? I really resonated with your points about seeking respite and connection at these gatherings and it can be particularly jarring to make a big effort to go (time, energy, expense) and have a bad experience.

Expand full comment

I think that we can be discerning when we scan an agenda, and we can also reach out to organizers to ask if they have designed for reflection and downtime….

Expand full comment

Such an insightful article - thank you for sharing - lots of food for thought and reflection

Expand full comment

Thanks!

Expand full comment

This is a great article and includes a key question for all guides and facilitators .. what is your theory of change? Yes - we are between paradigms and your article really helps me think mindfully about what works, doesn’t work and why- thank you 😊

Expand full comment

Relevant, insightful and resonant.

Your piece was shared by colleague who is helping to support an early stage network of people from various regions across the US doing change work in diverse settings. It tied directly with what we are working through as we are forming.

I then couldn’t wait to share it with those I’ve been working with for years in place based work. Themes and take aways spot on for what we are grappling with as well.

Thank you!

- Julie

Expand full comment

So glad to hear this!

Expand full comment

This is wonderfully perceptive, thank you. I love the way you’re thinking about this. Experiential recharge for well being. I think it’s fabulous. 🙏💚

Expand full comment

Thank you! 🙏

Expand full comment

I love how you captured what I've been noticing in group experiences the past several years, Renee. Thank you, I'll be sharing with others!

Expand full comment

Wonderful list!!! So delighted that you are highlighting the need to attend, deeply and well, to process design and facilitation. How we gather is key, for bringing out the best in us humans....

Expand full comment