Everything You Need to Run Your Circle.
Circles are small groups that meet monthly to share and learn together. We recommend that Circles meet ten times a year, starting with a Kickoff Meeting and then alternating between what we call Education Meetings and Exploration Meetings.
In our Circle Kits, we provide guides and worksheets to make it easy to get started. Feel free to follow our suggestions or create a process that works for your Circle.
Our research shows that successful peer groups commit to confidentiality, open and honest communication and active participation. If you put these building blocks in place, your Circle will have a strong foundation for developing the relationships and trust to encourage and support each other. And that is what’s important.
Kickoff Meeting
Your first Circle meeting is all about getting to know one another. It’s also a time to discuss how your Circle should work, identify shared goals and plan your next few meetings.
Education Meetings
Before each Education Meeting, we recommend that you watch a 20-minute online lecture developed by one of our education partners. Then you can use your Circle time to discuss the topic and practice your new skills.
Exploration Meetings
The idea is that everyone benefits from the group’s best thinking. Two members start by sharing a personal opportunity, challenge or upcoming decision; then the rest of the members share their own insights and related experiences.
Circle Basics
In addition to active participation, we recommend the following core principles for your Circle:
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Not mentors, direct reports, business partners or clients.
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Thoughtful conversations about meaningful topics
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Remember the three N’s: nothing, nobody, never
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No judgements or advice, just personal experiences
Share your ideas with us. Every Circle is different and will try new things. If you find an approach worth sharing, we’d love to hear about it at circles@leanin.org
