Group Practices

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Fabric Groups are made for sharing real life, care, trust and growth. We do this with the help of our shared Fabric conversations, some shared practices and a shared recognition that we are all, always perfectly imperfect works-in-progress.

Together, we have learned some practices that help them be and grow as the unique space we know that can be.

  • Push pause. The world is noisy enough. Before speaking, take a breath…. (aah silence.)

  • Be present. Your being here matters! Both physical and participation with vulnerability.

  • “I’ll pass” is always an option. (See above. This is a tension to exist in!)

  • Step up to share when you are ready. Step back to listen.

  • Confidentiality. Always ask before sharing anything outside the group.

  • Speak from your own experience to the whole group. Ask for help or feedback if you’d like. Otherwise, steer clear of unsolicited advice, fixes or interpretations of what others share.

  • Listening is a superpower. Listening to others share their own experiences, struggle and strength is empowering. So is being listened to! [Listening isn’t always perceived as a strength, and it totally can be!]

  • Wonder over judgment. Stay curious about yourself and others. Practice open and honest questions.

  • Be serious, but don’t take yourself too seriously.

  • End on time.

  • Have fun! And snacks.

Keep these in front of you somehow each week and make them your own as a Group. (If not every week, read them together at least once a month. Facilitators might highlight one in their own words, pair up to share favorites or the ones you find challenging…)

Practice makes progress, not perfection. You can always circle back with the group or an individual to share how something felt to you or check in. These are pretty incredible habits of relating to ourselves and each other in our other relationships too. Groups help us practice when it’s relatively easy!

Sometimes there will be care and support needs that go beyond what can be addressed within your normal group operation. That’s a good time to pull out the Care IQ tools.