Choice Can Improve the Way Meetings Work
Participation does not always look like speaking quickly in a group. Consider whether the meeting format gives people reasonable ways to contribute. Offering choices can preserve the purpose of the meeting while reducing unnecessary pressure.
Share an agenda in advance, permit written questions, and explain when decisions will be made. If a personal reflection exercise is optional, say so clearly and provide an alternative. Do not interpret a decision to pass as resistance or lack of commitment.
Research connection
SAMHSA identifies safety, transparency, peer support, collaboration, choice, and cultural responsiveness. These principles guide the suggested leadership practice. [1]
Put it into practice
Review one recurring meeting. Identify a meaningful choice about participation, preparation, or follow-up. Ask participants whether the change made it easier to contribute, and retain what proves useful.
Reference
Practice suggestions are editorial applications; the cited source has not tested this exact exercise.