Holding Space
What exactly is “Holding Space” and why is it so important? Holding Space is a way of being present and assisting a person or group of people through gentle, non-judgmental support and guidance.
“It means that we are willing to walk alongside another person in whatever journey they are on without judging them, making them feel inadequate, trying to fix them or trying to impact the outcome.”
- Heather Plett
When we hold space for someone, we open our hearts, let go of all control, and provide unconditional support.
How?
Allowing people to trust their own intuition and recognizing that families, in all forms, have history and oftentimes are their own best resource.
Giving people as much information as they can handle without overwhelming them and learning to read the signs.
Recognizing that people need their power when in stressful situations, and that taking this away leaves people feeling empty and lacking confidence.
Understanding that your ego has no place here. Someone’s success has nothing to do with your intervention, nor does their failure reflect negatively on you. This is not about you, it is about providing space where others have the opportunity to learn and grow.
Providing a safe space and atmosphere for mistakes and growth.
Offering guidance gently and thoughtfully without passing judgement or making someone feel as though they have failed.
Becoming a vessel for emotions and allowing someone to express themselves truly without being shamed.
Understanding that your experience is not their experience, so be a blank slate for them to paint on. Let them make the experience their own and hold it for them in a way that breeds confidence for them. Support cultural differences and create an atmosphere of acceptance that allows others to freely express what is important to them.
Knowing how to hold space is a gift and something that is lived, learned and unique to every situation.
Such is Life.
Background Image courtesy of Hill Country Camera
