I’ve come across three kinds of groups over the years. The first two are common. The third is less so, yet often more powerful.
CONTENT-BASED GROUPS
The first kind of group gathers to learn a topic or curriculum. Vistage is a great example of this, as are most classrooms. The purpose is the content itself.
CONNECTION-BASED GROUPS
My experience of YPO falls into this. So does AA, and some networking groups. Getting together with similar people to connect on a human level. For these groups, relationships are the primary purpose.
COMMUNION-BASED GROUPS
Communion is not a word that we tend to use outside of religion or spirituality. But what I’m talking about is a group that points to silence. Space, rather than content, is what’s encouraged. The container and leader allow us to more easily get in touch with our own deeper wisdom. Communion-based groups are rare in business, yet incredibly powerful.
All kinds of groups can be helpful.
But I find many leaders think they need content or connection, when they most need communion.
What kind of group would be most helpful for the challenge you’re currently facing?
And what insight might help you face it differently?