I recently participated in a three-day seminar focused on leading transformational workshops. The journey was simultaneously meta and truly transformational, with several of the insights I gained standing out distinctly for me.

Safety is paramount. The workshop facilitators emphasized repeatedly that psychological safety is the foundation. You cannot truly belong to a group without feeling secure. They established the necessary conditions for safety and then elaborated on their methods.

Groups generate a level of wisdom that no individual can achieve alone. Unlike a straightforward presentation filled with information, in a transformational workshop, leaders supply the framework and some content, then enable the group to collaboratively generate the solutions. The outcomes are remarkable.

Groups thrive with leaders who present their authentic selves. The workshop facilitators indicated that when participants enter a workshop or retreat, they consider these inquiries about the leaders, in this sequence:

– Are they relatable?
– Are they warm-hearted?
– Are they skilled?

Previously, I concentrated on strengthening my credentials, believing that to be of utmost importance. However, I now recognize that group members primarily seek a leader who interacts with them as a fellow human, acknowledges them, and is fully engaged in the moment. This doesn’t imply oversharing or relinquishing leadership, but rather signifies being “present, not perfect.”

Implementing these insights

You can implement these insights in any group, meeting, or event that you lead.

– Reflect on whether you are fostering psychological safety, enabling everyone to feel a sense of belonging and the ability to express their thoughts securely.
– During your events, make space for collective wisdom to surface. Have confidence that it is valuable enough to invest extra time ensuring all voices are heard.
– Assess how you present yourself. Could you reveal more of your vulnerability and humanity?

Diane W. Shannon is a physician specializing in internal medicine and a physician coach.