Small Group Ground Rules
When a group is first
established, it's a good idea to setup some ground rules that people all adhere
to. The aim is to make the group a safe
place where people can be challenged to grow and not be hurt or offended.
Here is a suggested set
of rules. You can choose to modify
these. You could also print out a copy
for each member to serve as a reminder.
These ground rules are adapted from the "Careforce Recovery
Facilitator Training" notes.
1.I agree that what is spoken in the group stays in the group. Confidentiality is essential. (A spoken commitment from each member is
required.)
2.I agree to be personal, not abstract, when sharing needs,
attitudes, feelings and causes.
"I" statements. (If I
wander off, please bring me back to the things relevant to the working group.)
3.I agree it is important to process past experiences that continue
to make us less effective people today.
I also recognise it is equally important to move on and confront the
issues that challenge me. (I don't recognise/understand
all the pieces of the puzzle - yet.)
4.I agree that intellectual opinions play no part in our
discussions, except as they bear on our own lives. (No debates.
We are to get into our lives and feelings and not theorize everything.)
5.I agree that each person has a right to their feelings and will
not be condemned for those feelings, even though they may be different from
other group members. (I will not push my
advice onto someone else.)
6.I agree that we will be careful not to accuse or pass judgement on
one another. We are called to confess
our own faults and deficiencies. (This is an opportunity for Gods grace to work
on us)
7.I agree to give and receive feedback. (Open to how we come across)
8.I agree to daily set aside time for study, reflection and prayer.
(Creates flow, allowing continuity between weeks.)
9.I agree to replace "can't" with "I choose not
to" and thereby learn to take responsibility for and control of my life.
10.
I agree to make a long term commitment to myself
and the group.
