Creating a Safe Space

In 2020 Nature has been my companion. The comfort, fun and inspiration I get from being with people was supplied by my garden, the robins and the worms. In this sanctuary I felt safe to explore and think, but somehow I could never recreate the impact of being listened to. I felt good in my physical self, but speaking to people makes different things happen in my mind.

I am fortunate that many of my friends and colleagues are coaches and professional listeners. They have been there for me on Zoom. They have been able to listen to me without judgement, without keeping score and without measuring me; even against my own standards. They chose to give me the ultimate safe space where I could go wherever I wanted; where I could challenge myself with gusto; or where I could back away without shame. Thank you all of you.

In 2021 as we all try to decide what to do next; how to prioritse; how to create more fairness and equality, we are going to need to create safe spaces for each other. If I want to repair and grow I need the conditions of safety. If I need to admit my prejudices and weaknesses, I need to know that growth and repair is not punishment, but a loving transformation.

Interesting things happen to people when they feel safe. They find learning a pleasure and embrace the potential for change. What we are thinking when we listen to each other is perceivable. We can feel the the views of our listeners, the dance of appraisal on their faces can direct our thoughts and confuse us. When they listen with fascination, sometimes we feel we can do anything; perhaps create a fairer more sustainable world.