For quite a while now, the principle/fact of life
"When its over, its over"
is followed by
"When its not over, its not over"
The two are written on one poster in various forms or in two languages
when appropriate, see pictures attachd.
As far as the time structure is concerned, my practice is to post the
beginning times of sessions (not a time from/until) which leaves it to
the participants to end it, whenever... it might mean some negotiations
with others that want the space, selforganises always.
cheers
mmp
On 30.10.2013 15:58, paul levy wrote:
Comments most welcome on this.
warm wishes
Paul Levy
This is my personal favorite principle of open space technology. Why
should a session run to the end of its allotted time on a timetable if
the conversation has reached a natural end? Why should a vital
conversation be brought to a premature end if it needs to flow on?
When we self-organise a conversation, we self-organise the flow, and
that includes self-organising the start and end points. There may,
indeed, be consequences for any timetabled following sessions, but in
open space it usually tends to work out, especially if we are in a zone
of “whatever happens , happens.”
This isn’t about being irresponsible, or disrespectful. This is about
processes starting and ending as needed in the present situation.
Timetables then become drafts, the reality of the emerging now is then
given more weight.
When it’s over, it’s over can be relevant for a group and/or for an
individual. The conversation may be over for me and I may use to two
feet to go elsewhere, even as others in the circle continue the
conversation. It may be over for the group or even for the one who
called the session.
We cannot predict when things will be ready end, even if we set the
start and end times down in writing. This principles offers up an
invitation to let the ending happen when it happens, and to be at ease
with that being earlier, on time, or later.
Now, that also sets up some wonderful nuances. Sometimes when we walk
away from something, it gives as the new perspective of that thing being
behind us. If, on reflection, we turn back and look at it, new insights
might emerge, and even a re-evaluation. Deciding something is over, may
paradoxically, offer up the insight that it is far from over. If we
allow ourselves the flexibility, we may decide it isn’t over at all and
either head back into the flow, or offer up a session of continuity later.
Another possibility can emerge where what is actually over is a
particular avenue of conversation. If we find a little shared silence, a
new avenue may open up. I’ve heard of several session leaders inviting a
pause at the potential end of a session – some quiet reflection time for
anyone who wants to. Out of that silence, Quaker-like, comes a new
impulse and something new begins, or something creates continuity.
So, when it’s over, it’s over, doesn’t only refer to sessions, but also
to lines of flow, to themes and specific questions. The end of something
can be the end of an out-breath and a little silence can be the
in-breadth of something further, something possible.
So, when it’s over, it is over. But is can also mean: When it’s over,
it’s over for now.
I love this principle when it is experiences playfully, as part of a
rhythm of flow, rather than as some kind of absolute commandment from a
facilitator. Some open space facilitators present this as “When it’s
over, get the hell out of there, without looking back”.
I think that is a shame. Because endings are always the doors new new
beginnings and, more often than not, simply pauses in the flow.
Posted here:
http://rationalmadness.wordpress.com/2013/10/30/exploring-the-principles-when-its-over-its-over/
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