Trust the Process

This week I had the opportunity to facilitate the first of two planning sessions for a client. Diverse individuals came together to discuss where they were going as an organization. The conversation was rich and resulted in a clear direction. Guided by their values, vision and mission, it was amazing to observe the process.

One of the things I have learned in my over 20 years of coaching and consulting, is to trust the process. This intention will make the difference between a successful and unsuccessful outcome(s). The following suggestions will also help:

1. Set an intention to trust the process.

2. See yourself in partnership with the client. The process is a collaboration.

3. Establish operating principles for the group process. I utilize four adapted from the book The Fourfold Way by Angeles Arrien. They are show up, speak the truth, listen to what has heart and meaning and be open to outcome.

4. Determine what pre-work, if any needs, to be completed prior to the session. This optimizes the time spent with the group.

5. Complete each session with a temperature check (how do you feel about the process) and one take-away.

6. As the facilitator, keep the ego and any personal agendas out of the process.

Trust the process may be a cliche. However when it comes to working with groups, it is critical to a successful outcome. How well do you trust the process in your organization?