These guidelines have been put in place so we can take care of each other. Following the guidelines helps us conduct our group meetings in the most beneficial way for everybody. 

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Confidentiality: 

Sometimes a story may reveal personal information that needs to stay within the group. 

• Please respect each other’s privacy.

 

Active listening:  

Often, when we should be listening, we may be thinking about what to say next. Active listening is listening with intent – really hearing what the speaker is saying. 

• Do not interrupt when someone is telling their story. Save your questions, comments and feedback for when they have finished. 

 

Supportive, nonjudgmental comments: 

​Everyone has their own personal way of delivering and telling their story. 

• When giving feedback, listen for story structure/sequence, descriptive details, and feelings. 

• Frame your feedback around what makes the story work for you, what you love about it, and what you would like to hear more of.

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We have all done things we may not feel proud of even when they end up helping us to learn right from wrong. The hardest lessons may be the most important ones. It is not our place to offer advice beyond simple acknowledgement that we have heard the story and we understand the pain it may have caused.

• We gather in an atmosphere of acceptance. Refrain from making judgments or offering solutions.

 

Keeping on track

All members of the group may step in to respectfully say when they feel the conversation is going off topic or veering away from our guidelines.