Step 1: Sharing a Challenge or Celebration 

Each Circle begins with a member, let’s call them Person A, sharing a challenge they’re facing or a celebration they are experiencing. This personal sharing sets the stage for authenticity and immediate connection within the group.

Step 2: Empathetic Guessing Feelings

Next, another member, Person B, engages with Person A by respectfully guessing what they might be feeling, using a Feelings and Needs List provided to all participants. Person A responds to these guesses. There is no danger of making a “wrong” guess since every guess leads to greater clarity and empathy.

Step 3: Guessing Needs

Then Person B guesses what needs might be underlying those feelings. This process helps Person A achieve self-empathy.

Step 4: Identifying the Main Need

Person A identifies the primary need — whether it’s an unmet need in the case of a challenge or a met need in the case of a celebration. This brings new awareness and understanding.

Step 5: The Process Continues with the Other Participants

The Circle continues with Person B sharing their challenge or celebration, and Person C stepping in to provide empathetic guesses. This process repeats until all members have had the opportunity to share, receive support, and identify a main need.

Step 6: Heart-Brain Coherence and Insight

Once all members have shared, the Circle Facilitator leads the group into heart-brain coherence. This guided practice helps each participant tap into their best thinking and get an insight regarding their challenge or celebration.

Step 7: Sharing Insights and Celebrating Met Needs

After getting an insight during coherence, each member can share with the group if they choose. There is no pressure to share, and there is no discussion of the insight, only celebration.