I am joyful to be running two Training the Trainer courses this year for Sensus here in Sweden. They will focus on the 'Me, We The Story' process that I have mentioned in earlier posts.
I truly believe that we need to deconstruct our own story in order to be present in the story of others and start the process of creating new possibilities together. What is wonderful about this work with Sensus, is that it is woven on top of a beautiful system here is Sweden called Folkbildning. There is no real translation for it in English but it stems from an individuals hunger for learning - whether it be about woodwork or Latin. They can then form Study Circles and invite people to learn with them. These Study Circles are supported by organisations such as Sensus as well as a range of others and with Government funds also. Here is a brief description:
'Folkbildning' is a term for a special type of state-funded and non-formal education and cultural activities.
At the fundamental level, Folkbildning is all about enabling people to learn from each other and to arrange for cultural activities. This is done via two types of activities, Study Circles and Cultural Events.
The aim for the different learning groups can be procuring knowledge and skills in various areas or subjects or within the sphere of personal development. Further more, as Folkbildning also events within the cultural domain, it is possible to create cultural experiences for others, an audience.
When people meet and engage in Folkbildning, by actively participating in learning groups and/or cultural activities, it's believed that it has an enormous strengthening effect on democracy
Characteristics of folkbildning
Folkbildning has three main characteristics.
Participation is Voluntary and by ones free will
Each groups' subject or goals for learning and development must be guided by the participants themselves and be an alternative to education offered by the formal educational institutions.
Participation is voluntary and by free will, hence anyone can always quit an activity at any time.
Participant-controlled and shaped by own plans
Participants may have different goals with their participation. It is therefore important to set aims and goals together as a group, including having a plan on how to reach those goals. All participants have a collective responsibility for the group's activities and progress.
Based on the participants' experiences
Folkbildning is based on people's previous experiences and opportunities to share them with others. An important part of learning is to relate new knowledge or other people's experiences to one's own life, knowledge and previous experiences.
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This non-hierarchical approach is perfectly suited for the training I am delivering as it cannot be done without the space for everyones story being present. There is a huge amount of trust involved, not just in the sharing of stories but also in the witnessing and holding of those stories. In these situations it is absolutely necessary that I also trust. I must trust myself, trust the process and trust the members of the training to trust each other.
Often in the past, I have witnessed, not a lack of trust but a fear of trusting, a fear of something not working. I know it is hard but I truly feel that as leaders we, whilst being aware of risks, make our decisions based on our hopes. If we are unable to do this we restrict the chances of something beautiful and vulnerable growing in our midst and that thing is hope.
Hope cannot grow or be present without trust.
I hope this helps all of you who are leaders trust yourself and the work that you do.
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