Disconnection and connection - navigating similarity and difference in transition and beyond

Hosted by Simon Cavicchia

A characteristic feature in transitioning from conventional to post conventional Action Logics is an opening to pluralism and recognising the reality of multiple subjectivities in how different individuals make sense of themselves, others and the world around them. Given the meaning-making capabilities at this stage, this raises a number of developmental challenges and questions:

• If meaning is subjective and constructed, what are the implications for what individuals might take to be consistent, reliable and real? (from position and illusion to reflexivity and awareness of meaning-making)
• To the extent that individuals identify with the content of their mind, what does this mean for a felt sense of self and identity, especially when encountering difference in others?
• What are the implications of multiple subjective realities on relationships, collaboration and meaning-making in groups and organisations?

At the heart of these questions is the human reality of having to manage the paradoxical need to experience our unique, nuanced subjectivity and difference (being hidden) whilst also needing to connect with others, join and be part of a wider collective (being found).

Within the pluralist and subjective perspective that begins to open at the Individualist stage, this paradoxical tension surfaces in relation to noticing similarities and differences with others, where similarities have the effect of connecting and differences of separating. This can be challenging and disorienting at this stage. Discovering how to be with and navigate this tension sets the foundations for expansion into later stage intersubjectivity and weaving narratives of collective meaning that can accommodate similarity and difference.

In this two-part online workshop we will:

• Explore the developmental origins of the paradox of disconnection and connection drawing on ideas from infant development and attachment theory.
• Explore the dynamics, challenges and opportunities of encountering subjective similarity and difference.
• Explore orientations and strategies that can support developing the capacity to navigate similarity and difference in relation to others and wider system contexts.
• Identify attitudes, orientations and practices for coaches and consultants to support this development in others.

The workshop will balance theoretical input with experiential exercises and discussion to bring theory and application to life.

Dates: 6 and 13 December, 1400-1700
Cost: £240 (+VAT where applicable)