Ground Rules for Family Retreat Working Sessions

Objective: To create a safe environment for open conversation

• No personal attacks

• Arrive on time

• Equal time for speakers

• Speak briefly, time is limited

• When others speak, listen—don’t prepare your remarks

• Listen with intent to understand

• Be open to others points of view; to outcome; to each person regardless of seniority

• Treat sessions as confidential

• Outside the retreat do not attribute comments to others

• Speak from your own experience

• Show up!

Adapted from Mark Gerzon, Director, Campaign for Common Ground, Boulder, CO