Day 2 – Let it sit

Story of day 2

Written by Glen

The theme of Day 2, “Let it Sit,” resonated with the discussions and insights from Day 1, emphasizing the fermentation process of our dialogues and the emergence of deeper understanding over time. This process highlighted that authentic learning requires conscious effort and time to marinate. I realized that meaningful conversations and reflections enhance personal growth and strengthen team cohesion and mutual understanding, essential assets in any community or organization.

The first key takeaway was the introduction of the Fourfold Practice: “Host Yourself,” “Be Hosted,” “Host Others,” and “Be Part of a Community of Practice.” These practices were guiding principles throughout the session, helping us stay focused and open. I found this to be a powerful reminder that maintaining internal stability is crucial to genuinely facing others, accepting oneself, and creating meaningful connections.

The World Café facilitated discussions on four essential questions, prompting deep listening and exploring how to build healthy relationships within the group. These practices helped me transcend my perspective and truly appreciate the power of collective wisdom, recognizing each member’s unique yet crucial role in the community. These questions spurred reflection and helped participants acknowledge the significance of deep listening in effective communication. Each question encouraged us to think about our role within the group and how effective communication can foster harmony and growth in the entire community. These dialogues gradually clarified that the core of a healthy organizational culture lies in genuine interactions and mutual trust, which is precisely the kind of team atmosphere I strive to foster in my work.

The second key takeaway was from the 4 Levels of Listening in Theory U and the Dialogue Walk exercise. We experienced the different levels of listening: Downloading: Hearing only surface-level information. Factual Listening: Paying attention to details and facts. Empathic Listening: Listening from the speaker’s perspective, feeling their emotions. Generative Listening: Co-creating new possibilities through dialogue.

This exercise was a significant revelation for me, especially generative listening, which taught me how to inspire new possibilities through listening—a skill I value significantly in the workplace. Practicing these four levels of listening made me realize that each level demands different degrees of effort and focus, with generative listening significantly enhancing creativity and collaborative spirit. This allowed us to better understand each other’s needs and expectations, achieving mutual support and growth. The metaphor of passing a ball vividly illustrates the different listening levels—like catching a ball thrown by someone else, it requires complete dedication and focus, which is at the heart of deep listening.

The third takeaway came from the discussion of Powerful Questions and the Wicked Question Game. We explored what makes a question powerful, realizing that it’s not the complexity of the question but the assumptions and inner state of the person asking it. As an HR professional, I found this understanding particularly impactful. I realized that the quality of questions I ask during interactions with candidates or colleagues is even more critical than I had imagined. A powerful question can move the conversation beyond the surface and tap into what truly matters, inspiring new thoughts and actions. Asking the right questions feels like using a key to unlock hidden doors of potential. Challenging existing mental models could open doors to new possibilities within the conversation. This session reinforced for me that the power of a question lies not only in its content but also in its ability to inspire and guide meaningful change.

During the game, participants refined their original questions, challenged their thought frameworks, and generated new insights. This was also a reminder that by constantly refining how I ask questions, I can help others break through mental limitations and find more creative or effective solutions in my work. We discovered that when a question is rephrased and improved from different perspectives, it provides richer answers and sparks deeper levels of collective intelligence. This experience is precious for both work and life.

At the end of the day, we first interacted in the Village News format, where everyone could share information that needed to be known by the group. This way of sharing helped us care for our own insights while also addressing the needs of others. Finally, during Check-out, we formed a circle in the style of scouts, celebrating the journey we shared throughout the day. This ritualistic ending fostered a deeper connection among participants. This collective ritual was not only an affirmation of the day’s achievements but also provided each person with a greater sense of belonging and accomplishment, making the entire learning experience more meaningful. For me, this closing made me feel the profound support within the team—a source of motivation that is irreplaceable.