Page 33 - Branch Leader Guide
P. 33
Charcot-Marie-Tooth
Association
Accepting
The importance of a leader being real with the group can’t be overstated. It’s only when
a leader feels free to be himself or herself that group members will feel free to be
themselves. If any participants are hiding, withholding or role-playing, group members
will not reach the deeper levels of acceptance where they can really trust and support
one another. The leader leads the way, not by doing, but by being.
Present
A group feels important and empowered when its leader is fully present. Such leaders
bring all aspects of themselves—body, mind, heart and soul—to the experience. They
center themselves before the meeting begins, then stay centered throughout the
meeting. If their attention starts to drift, they know how to bring themselves back to the
moment.
Energetic
Centered leaders bring their own energy and enthusiasm to the group experience. They
don't expect the group to energize them, nor do they feel responsible for energizing the
group. They take responsibility for their own preparation and look forward to what can
happen during the meeting.
Observant
Skilled branch leaders are all eyes and ears, taking in all they can from all participants:
what their faces say, what their bodies disclose, and what their inflections reveal. They
notice patterns of interaction between individuals and the group as a whole. They also
pick up on what people don't say or do.
Co-Leadership: Benefits and Challenges
Generally speaking, two heads are better than one and co-leadership can benefit the
leaders, as well as the group members.
Conserving Energy
Facilitating groups can be tiring. Co-leadership provides diversity in voices, presentation
styles and energy levels, which can serve to hold the attention of the group while giving
each leader time to shine and time to rest.
Maximizing Diverse Resources
No one, regardless of how skilled, knows everything. Working as a team allows each
person to contribute his or her gifts, talents and resources.
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