SAFE SPACES?

“Prior to coming into this experience, I feel there wasn’t a safe environment within the team to speak freely.”

This was a comment given on a session survey after an initial retreat I facilitated recently for an organization.  This was one of the precise reasons why I was there that day. Sadly, it’s a common issue in many organizations, including our Church. Creating a culture of safety is vital for effective leadership. It’s not just about the “Safe Environment” programs in Youth Ministry. We’re talking about the essential need for leaders to create a space of psychological and emotional safety for their people.

One of the insights that has stayed with me for years comes from Dr Curt Thompson’s Trilogy of books: The Anatomy of The Soul, The Soul of Desire, and The Soul of Shame. In these, he emphasizes the importance of creating secure attachments with the people we work with and minister to. These healthy attachments are built on people feeling seen, soothed, safe, and secure. Addressing these needs fosters spaces where everyone can thrive, leading to a more harmonious and productive culture.

Reflecting on my own experiences, I realize how crucial it is to create this culture of safety within our teams and organizations. I’ve witnessed the difference a leader can make by providing empathy and reassurance, especially during difficult and stressful times. Knowing it’s a safe space where I can express myself without fear of judgment has encouraged me to be more motivated to address challenges I would have otherwise avoided. Conversely, I’ve also experienced environments where a lack of trust in my leaders inhibited my contribution and stifled both my growth and that of the entire team.

WHERE TO START?

Here are some practical steps I would like to share with you to cultivate a secure and supportive environment for your people:

• SEEN

People need to feel recognized and valued for who they are, not just for the work they are doing for you. This involves actively listening, showing genuine interest in their perspectives, and acknowledging their specific contributions. When individuals feel seen, they feel respected and appreciated, enhancing their sense of belonging and motivation.

• SOOTHED

In times of stress or conflict, it’s crucial for individuals to feel supported and understood. Effective leaders offer genuine empathy, reassurance, and appropriate resources to help their people manage challenges. When feeling soothed, one can better regulate one’s emotions, leading to a more stable and harmonious environment.

• SAFE

Psychological safety is vital for fostering a culture where people can be their authentic selves without fear of retribution or ridicule. This includes creating a culture of trust, where mistakes are seen as opportunities for learning rather than sources of punishment. A safe environment encourages innovation, creativity, and communication that is open and honest.

• SECURE

Security means that people have confidence in the stability of their place on the team, clarity in their roles, and assurance in the consistency and fairness of leadership. When individuals feel secure, they are more likely to invest in their work and engage fully with the goals of the team and organization.

CONCLUSION

By addressing the human need to feel seen, soothed, safe, and secure, we can transform our cultures into environments where everyone feels valued and supported.  People tend to rise to the level of the value we place in them. This not only enhances individual well-being but also fuels collective impact and growth. Let’s commit to fostering cultures that embody these values, building a foundation of trust, empathy, and security. Together, we can profoundly impact the culture of our Church and the people within it.