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Simple sutras for developing purpose statement
The success of any group depends upon its structure. A clear structure eases tension and helps the group to gel. A group’s existence can be understood on the basis of a purpose of statement. A good purpose statement fits the goals of group.
It lays out a vision of what the group stands for and what it hopes to accomplish. The statement can be elegant and simple. Nevertheless, if the group has made it a statement of intent and direction, it can be referred to for guidance during those times when the group is off track. The group should aim at creating a safe and supportive environment wherein the group members can clarify their doubts, develop their relationship skills, and learn to express and get feedback about their feelings and thoughts.
The group may want to simplify or enhance its purpose statement in due course of time.
Permission to continually set new goals for group members as they go through life is an important message, and changing the group’s purpose statement is one way to model the value.
Guidelines establish the limits of group responsibility and set the stage for evaluation activities that help a group stay on track. The following sutras can strengthen the group and on that basis the group can be coined as ‘a group’ with ‘a good purpose statement’ - they are:
One at a time
Every member should have the opportunity to take time to find words to express himself. This calls for patience on the part of the other group members and not finishing the thoughts or sentences for those who are struggling to find the right words.
No put- downs
Life is hard in a group. Group support assures and affirms members for trying their best with the abilities they have.
Even in fun, a put- down lowers trust and makes a member feel bad. Put-downs must be named and dealt with promptly, because they decrease a person’s self-esteem and therefore injure the group.
No asides
Side conversations put down the speakers. Therefore, to maintain the honour, attention, and respect of the group, side conversations are best avoided. Thereby, all the members get the respect and attention they deserve.
No unwarranted advice
When we tell others how to live, we are pretending we are in charge of everything and everyone. That is a big job, and most people fail here. It is not our responsibility to fix other group members.
Our goal is to share our similar experiences, affirm other’s ability to deal with their problems, and encourage members to take good care of themselves. Giving advice is a cheap way to feel powerful. However refrain from giving uncalled for advice.
Be honest
Trust is at the core of all good relationships. When we are dishonest with others, we let them and ourselves down. In the group, we must strive to risk being honest with others and ourselves.
Respect other’s beliefs
Differences strengthen the group. They allow members to see life from different perspectives. While everyone doesn’t have to agree with other people’s ideas or beliefs, they must respect their right to their point of view.
Share and caring
How the members feel is an important part of who they are. Learning how to name what they feel and then taking the risk to share it is important aspect of group work.
Every member’s contribution counts
Every member is an important element of group, each is responsible for contributing and helping the group work successfully. Since everyone in the group counts, group members must try to decide what is best for all of the group members, not just the loudest or more talkative!
Practice of these sutras, can strengthen the group.
DR. RATNA PUROHIT
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