Comments to: crs@uvm.eduReviewed as of 4/20/98
THIS DOCUMENT WAS PRODUCED BY THE NEW ENGLAND REGIONAL LEADERSHIP
PROGRAM. IT IS POSTED BY THE CENTER FOR RURAL STUDIES FOR PUBLIC
USE. THE CENTER FOR RURAL STUDIES ASSUMES NO RESPONSIBILITY FOR
THE CONTENTS. FOR MORE INFORMATION, REFER TO THE USERS GUIDE.
UNIT 2: DEVELOPING SKILLS FOR CENTERING
INTRODUCTION
The image of centering comes from pottery, and is described by
M.C. Richards as "that act which precedes all others on the
potter's wheel. The bringing of the clay into a spinning, unwob-
bling pivot, which will then be free to take innumerable shapes as
potter and clay press against each other." (Richards, 1962, p. 9)
It is often described as the most difficult and crucial step in
pottery making.
As in pottery, centering is an excellent image to use for the
process individuals use to find balance in their lives; to
integrate what is within them in their work and to help them direct
their energy effectively to allow their work to take the shape they
want.
Individuals in leadership positions are often involved with
many diverse projects, commitments, and ideas; they are outwardly
very active. To maintain their effectiveness, leaders must develop
personal ways of feeling centered as they stay involved and busy in
their daily lives. When they don't, they find themselves feeling
scattered, overwhelmed, off-balance, tense, and ineffective in
their communication and work.
We all can probably remember times when we were rushing before
an important meeting and "didn't quite have it all together" when
it began and kind of bumbled our way through feeling very
disappointed in ourselves. We can probably also remember other
times when we felt some non-specific anxiety before a meeting and
took a few minutes to sit quietly and relax our minds with a few
deep breaths, thereby turning the energy around to achieve a very
positive and satisfying experience.
Personal power is, in part, being in charge of our lives--
knowing how best to energize and care for ourselves--and thinking
clearly. Centering activities are those that help us achieve this
sense of focus, calm, and reconnection with what's happening inside
so we can use our energy most effectively outside to achieve
results we intend. It is one of the most important personal skills
a leader can develop.
Centering is a term that "refers to a series of processes that
strive simultaneously to increase an awareness of the body center
and to promote the discovery of the true self that is beyond the
mask of ego. Centering is the integration of body, mind, and
spirit into a harmonious whole." (Banet, 1980 p. 175).
When we are centered we are most effective. We focus fully on
the present; we use our energy effectively and we feel an inner
calm as we are outwardly active. We are aware of a connection
between ourselves and a larger context; we experience a willingness
to transcend apparent dichotomies; and we believe in inner control
and responsibility.
Being centered is the integration of body, mind, and spirit.
It is important to realize that our bodies, minds, and spirits are
all connected. For example, in our minds, our attitudes, beliefs,
assumptions, expectations, ideas, and memories all evoke certain
emotions and connect to body sensations, tensions, and behaviors.
ASSUMPTIONS
þ Personal power flows naturally from a clear sense
of who we are and what is happening inside of us.
þ The process of centering oneself is as important as
accomplishing specific tasks.
þ Centering is the basis for action. It is a crucial
prerequisite for strong, clear leadership.
þ Centering is the first step in creative
problem-solving.
þ Centering is an effective way to transform fears
when taking risks.
þ Centering allows focus on the internal realities of
leadership, preparing leaders to deal with external
pressures and expectations of them.
LEARNING OBJECTIVES
þ Learners will increase their awareness of the
importance of centering skills.
þ Learners will practice specific centering skills.
Comments to: crs@uvm.edu
Reviewed as of 4/20/98