Chris, is there a way you could share one of the State of Grace
Documents that's an "alternative to employment contracts and
performance evaluations"? I've read about State of Grace docs at the
website, but would like to hear more, embedded in the sort of situation
you describe.
If this isn't appropriate for the list, just email me back individually?
Diane
On Apr 4, 2006, at 4:06 PM, Chris Weaver wrote:
These are very rich threads going on right now.
First, a thought about givens. Having been both in the sponsor/formal
leader's shoes and the facilitator/consultant's shoes, I appreciate
that useful givens are not about control but about commitments that a
sponsor is living by. Organizational leaders have made many
commitments and agreements, and fulfilling those commitments is a part
of living with integrity. Commitments which have grown out of deep
purpose generate a powerful field. (Commitments that have been made
out of self-interest, a weak purpose, or fear are another matter
[welcome to control.]) Opening space is one opportunity for a sponsor
to share with (sometimes remind) participants of key commitments.
Citing Jack Ricchiuto's requirements for authentic engagement, such a
sharing of commitments can enhance transparency and establish
deeper trust.
But as Jack reminds us, everyone carries such commitments, not just
organizational leaders, and transparency is needed all over.
Recently in a non-profit organization with 25 staff people,
we developed State of Grace Documents as an alternative to both
employment contracts and performance evaluations. This is the most
powerful experience of mutual transparency I have yet had. Because
individual commitments, gifts, styles, and callings are so complex,
establishing transparency that is adaptive is no easy feat. State of
Grace Documents, with a built-in cycle of re-visiting and refining,
are a very powerful tool. Sharing expectations of one another, in all
directions regardless of position, is so refreshing. KNOWING ONE
ANOTHER opens authentic space and "expands our now" as a sustainable
living field of trust.
One more curiosity. I enjoyed Mark Jones's comments about the value
of being "embedded." I also have worked in recent years as a space
opener and space holder with formal leadership responsibilities. What
I have found is that my own commitments as a leader have increasingly
shifted away from commitments to specific form, content, or outcome,
and toward commitment to process. Inviting, opening, holding space
have incrementally BECOME the purpose, the fire at the center of the
wheel.
So when Michael asks, "Has anyone put his mind to the connection of
spirit and selforganisation?" I say, Yes, and I'm happy to know that
my mind can only barely touch it, like looking at the sun.
Chris
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