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Informationen zum Autor Craig and Patricia Neal, with Cynthia Wold Klappentext This book is about restoring wholeness to ourselves, our families, communities, and organizations by unleashing and igniting the brilliance and genius inherent whenever two or more are gathered. We are all born perfect and whole; now is our time to experience that in one another. Through the principles and practices of The Art of Convening (AoC) anyone can learn that "everyday communion" is not only possible, it is an imperative for the world to work for everyone. There are myriad titles on facilitating and hosting meeting methodologies, but none that prepares the individual with the skills and practices to handle the demands of being an inspired convener in a time when stakes have never been higher to make collective decisions that affect life on this planet. The work addresses the essential principles and practices for those "called" to convene and lead meetings and gatherings that produce transformational outcomes for the people in them and their organizations, communities and the world. The authors take the reader through nine critical steps that are part of three larger motives:The convener engages with him or herself clarify the issues, intent, and how to extend the invitation.The convener engages with participants to set context and receive all feedback and opinionsThe participants engage with each other to create essential conversations and a commitment to action Leseprobe INTRODUCTION The role of the Convener is to gather and hold the people IT WAS A REMARKABLE MEETING of senior-level women executives, gathering to explore the notion of convening as a leadership competency. I was the Convener, but it was clear from the onset that these women were used to running their own show. Many had grown into their leadership in results-dominated environments, driving definable goals and outcomes, where listening skills and vulnerability were not often appreciated or wanted. As the Convener, I had done a considerable amount of preparation, internal and external—but I have to admit, I was nervous. Most of those present were not familiar with Heartland’s work and had never experienced the Art of Convening—and many were cutting-edge leaders in their own right, with very defined ways of doing things. I knew I would be challenged in this practice. After the introductions and context setting, we gathered in a large circle. I reminded myself that my intention here was to bring authentic engagement to the gathering and to set aside any other motives that could interfere with that intention. Then I asked that each woman in turn speak to an important question she was dealing with as a leader. As each spoke, their responses deepening with each voice, I was reminded of why I love to do this work. A few common themes emerged: “How do I have to change to bring about the change I want to see in my organization?” “How do I create authentic connections with my people when I rush from meeting to meeting?” “I’m tired of doing things the same old way, but don’t know what else there is.” Once everyone had spoken, the majority welcomed the opportunity to take a deeper dive into their challenges. The room had become electric with energy. A window had been opened to a conversation of meaning and personal consequence. And some of the participants showed palpable discomfort. There were many competing agendas in the room, and midway through the afternoon I lost my internal focus and lost my way, getting off-track from the agenda. At this point, a key leader left the room without comment, obviously disturbed. A flash of anxiety swept over me as my stomach tightened. Would the group be able to hold together? Would we be able to complete the day? After years of witnessing the phenomenon of group breakdown, I knew that I had to stay present. I focused again on my inte...
