The challenge of "luminaries"

[Joelle Lyons Everett]

Thanks to everyone for this interesting conversation about the pros and cons 
of working in circles.   I have worked in circles with a wide variety of 
different groups, though occasionally the space has forced the circle into a 
rectangle--in one case, a rectangle at the front of a room where the rest of the 
space was theater style, with seats on raised tiers.

When the sponsors have asked the reason for the circle, I usually mention 
that it helps the group to see and hear everyone present, and puts everyone in 
the organization on an equal footing--which they generally support.   I also ask 
the sponsor to make their opening remarks from the center of the circle.   
They sometimes comment that it feels a little awkward, which turns out to be a 
good ice-breaker.

I did have one person object loudly--a participant came into the room, saw 
the set-up chairs, and said loudly, "I'm not going to sit in any circle!"   Then 
she helped herself to coffee and cookies, came into the circle and sat 
down--where she was a lively participant all day long.

I agree that a change from business-as-usual can be a little threatening.   I 
remember a colleague telling me about holding problem-solving meetings with 
chairs in a circle and no table--years ago, when working in a circle was more 
unusual in a business environment than it is today.   He recalls looking around 
the room and observing that everyone was holding things on their laps 
"covering their balls."

However, I have noticed that when we start the meeting in a circle, almost 
every breakout group puts their chairs in a circle as well, so apparently the 
idea is not so strange after the initial surprise.

I agree with Kaliya that you do what you can to make people comfortable--but 
I think I am comfortable with people being just a little uncomfortable when 
they try something new.

Still pondering,

Joelle


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