The Magic

By: Jerry Stein

Many veterans of the Roundtable have repeatedly referred to the ‘magic’ they’ve seen happen in our peer group, the Executive Roundtable.  They have repeatedly asked me to explain how I do it.

First, let me say I think they are referring to the wonderful “learning experiences” that are difficult to explain.  But I will attempt to do just that, so here is my take on the subject.

This is not by accident, although some of you might wonder how it seems to happen so often.  I thought you might enjoy having a slight overview of learning theory to understand how the stew is cooked, setting the stage for this magic to happen.

It is the group leader, facilitator, the Coach that has to implement the following theory into practice, but it is you that must be willing to learn, to grow, to be challenged in order to have that magic seemingly just ‘happen’.

50% of adult learning takes place only when the Mindset Is Ready For It.

That’s my job, to shake you up and get you ready for it, that’s an ongoing challenge.  That’s why I push you, changing gears, bobbing and weaving like a fighter does in the ring.  You must have a receptive mindset. Changing or getting your mindset ready can be similar to helping you shift paradigms.

40% of adult learning takes place based within the context of relationships.

That’s the key, the communication within our relationships; the Coach, the group and its’ members.  So part of my job is to provide the setting where your learning develops along with relationships.

10% of adult learning has to do with content.

In the case of the Roundtable, many members come to the group thinking it’s information based outside of yourself that holds the key to your performance.  Not entirely true, it’s going through the process that helps you learn more about yourself: who you are, what you want and how to express it, which includes what you might bring to the table in any given situation.

So my job is to work on getting your mindset right, on ongoing task.  Then I must provide a helpful environment that supports communication and relationship development. Last but not least, I must stay on top of what’s going on and keep you on track by redirecting interactions to include the most relevant content and overall message. Of course, much internal communication is ongoing and processed during the group through observation as well as participation.

Now, taking this theory and applying it on the fly, experientially and in the moment, in an effective manner that gives the group members a valuable learning experience, both emotionally and cognitively.

It is what I do and I do it  well, it is my unique gift.

And it is Magic!  That’s what I bring to the table, when working with people going through transitions in their lives and wanting to grow.  I facilitate the development of their personal insight and perception, increasing their personal sense of well being, helping them make better decisions in life, both personally and professionally, coming from a more authentic base and sense of who they are.  True motivation comes within, it’s an internal process, and I set the stage allowing that process to happen.

Best Regards,

Jerry