The Way of Council
Council Circles are an ancient form of being together. In the 80s, Jack Zimmerman and the Ojai Foundation developed the practice to serve their work together and created a profound way of being together, making decision together, managing together - which brings equality, responsibility and care into our joint work.
Council brings to our lives the presence of the 4 intentions:
1
Speaking from
the heart
To speak from the heart means to stay connected with what's important to me in a way that also keeps the connection with other people.
I invite myself to speak honestly and in a simple way about what I feel and need, and this way I help others understand what goes on inside me.
Speaking from the heart is a simple and authentic speech and this is its main strength.
2
Listening from
the heart
Listening from the heart means to practice listening without judgement, to listen with curiosity.
When I listen, I try to hear what is behind the simple words someone is saying and go beyond into hearing what is important to them, to hear the wisdom in their words, even if we hold opposite opinions.
3
Lean Speaking
This means to be aware about the how much "air time" I take when speaking in the group.
To speak what's important to me and also leave space for others in the group.
4
Spontaneity
The circle invites us not to over-plan ourselves.
Leave room for spontaneity and creativity and changing forces of life.
Spontaneity allows us to simply be here and now, which supports us in authentic speech and devote listening.
And in practice, how does a Council Circle work?
The listening circle is a form of dialogue, like a language. It can be utilized at any moment and summons a deep connection to ourselves and those around us.
Sitting in a circle, together practicing the 4 intentions of the heart by the participants, creates a safe space, where each and every one can be heard.
This is the secret of the magic, it is what allows the deep truth of the group to to reveal itself, so that questions like:
What do we want to do together?
What will support us as a group?
Which decision would be good for us right now?
Can really get answered.
I work with the council circle method in order to maintain a safe space for the participants. Such a space where all voices can be heard and from then together - we move towards our goal.