Group activities, of course, can range from learning to cook to discussing a book club choice. But there are some generic tips on leading groups that can put the odds of their success in your favor.
1. Be clear on the focus of the group activities. Sounds obvious - goal: learn to cook (duh). But do you want the group to learn a deeper understanding of herbs so they'll more often shop at farmers' markets? Or do you want cooking to just be the background for socializing? Group leadership means keeping the specific focus in mind and attracting others to do the same.
2. Keep the meeting time consistent even though there are times some just can't make it. If you switch the time to accommodate Susan, Jean and Tom may resent the fact that they had made special arrangements to be there during the original time, and feel Susan should do the same.
3. Do set boundaries. People feel safer and work better in group activities within chosen boundaries. State the hopes for the gathering at the beginning, and restate it throughout where it feels appropriate without sounding nagging.
4. Balance focus and boundaries with a little free time. Ideas and thoughts will naturally appear that need to be expressed at appropriate times. Depending on the nature of the activities of your group, decide when free time should take place. You can allow it at the beginning, but realize you'll have to get everyone focused at some point when their minds may have wondered. You can allow free time after the group activity, but realize people sometimes start visiting and have to be shooed out the door. If your group activities take place in a public location, and everyone can leave according to their own schedule, that wouldn't be a problem. If you lead group activities in someone's home, it can be hard to get participants to leave. A mid-break period of free time is another good option. Participants have already started out focused and it may be easier for them to return to focus after a mid-activity break.
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