The holiday season is upon us—a time of celebration and connection. For those of us passionate about facilitation, the season also offers a unique lens through which to view and participate in holiday events.
Facilitation—whether we realize it or not—is happening all around us. The holiday potluck where one person masterfully navigates a room full of strong personalities to organize the food table? That’s facilitation. The family member who ensures everyone gets a say in choosing the holiday movie without it turning into a debate? Also facilitation. Observing these moments (or noticing when facilitation could have been helpful!) can inspire us and help us sharpen or build our own facilitation skills.
In Chapter 8 of her book, Design to Engage, Beth talks about how we all have the potential to become great facilitators if we intentionally seek out activities, experiences, and interactions that help us grow our practice. We can also practice through noticing facilitation skills in action and bringing them into our everyday lives. Here are two specific ideas for this time of year:
- Observe facilitation in action at holiday gatherings like family dinners, office work parties, or community events. Watch how people navigate conversations, ensure everyone feels included, and resolve tensions. Take mental notes about what works, what doesn’t, and how you might approach similar situations.
- Facilitate informally at those same types of events. While you may not be the designated “facilitator” at your holiday table, you could still do some of the same things facilitators do in more work-related contexts. Lightly guide a conversation by asking open-ended questions, help a group reach a decision about plans, or ensure quieter voices are heard in a lively conversation. Even ensuring that there are both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverage options at an event is facilitation in action!
The magic of facilitation lies in its ability to transform interactions—whether among colleagues, family members, or community groups. The more you notice and practice facilitation skills, the more you help to create spaces where people feel heard, valued, and connected. Becoming a great facilitator is about seeking out experiences that help us grow. The holiday season offers plenty of those—if we’re open to them.