In a nutshell

In an unhurried conversation, there is time to think differently and connect with people in a refreshing way. Unhurried isn’t always slow, but it has a pace where people find it easy to join in and not feel crowded out. And listening can be as satisfying as talking.

Unhurried Conversations are a simple way to create space for dialogue that isn’t rushed or transactional. Instead of interrupting, performing or trying to persuade there’s a rhythm of speaking and listening — with space for everyone to be heard.

See unhurried.org for more.

Set up

Create a calm, comfortable environment. A circle of chairs works well and a table can be useful to help pass the ‘talking piece’.

You’ll need about an hour, ideally with 6–12 people.

One person (the host) introduces the pace and principles, and then participates like everyone else.

Flow

• The host welcomes the group and invites everyone to speak when they feel moved and to let others finish before responding.
• When you speak you hold the talking piece (often a cup or sugar bowl) and when you’re finished just put it down. There’s no need to pass it to anyone.
• A simple theme or question can help open things up, but it’s fine to start with silence.
• People speak to the whole group. There’s no need to reply or fill the space — just add what feels right.
• Silence is welcome. You can hold the talking piece in silence before or after speaking.
• Some people may talk more or ramble – just listen and treat it as performance art.
• After about 60 minutes, the host gently closes the space. There’s usually a brief check-out without the talking piece but this is optional.
  

 

Source: Johnnie Moore