I’ve been having a lot of fun this week facilitating virtual focus groups for a client.  We’re working on their strategic plan and decided to use Appreciative Inquiry as our model for building the plan.

Appreciative Inquiry involves “inquiring” about the positive things happening in an organization to “appreciate” those strengths.  Then you build upon those strengths to create your plan.

I asked the employees a series of unconditionally positive questions during the focus group.

As they shared stories about their best day at work, we could all feel the positive energy emerging, even though we were not in the same room together.

They were animated and excited as they told me about the greatest strengths and best parts of working for the company, even though their company’s sales have not yet fully rebounded in this economy. 

They shared stories of empowerment and going above and beyond, even though they experienced some cut-backs in their compensation packages.

What you appreciate, appreciates.

The employees left our focus group sessions uplifted and inspired by all of the positive things happening in their organization, rather than being frustrated by the challenges.

It’s been a year since COVID turned our lives upside down.  We’ve experienced loss, isolation, financial setbacks, and a TON of change.

What do you appreciate about your experiences over the past year?  If you need to be uplifted and feel inspired, take a few minutes to discuss these questions with your family, friends, and coworkers.

1. Tell me about a time over the past year that stands out as a high point experience—a time when you were inspired, filled with optimism, and enjoying life to its fullest. Describe the energy and passion you felt and how it reinforced your belief that you could overcome any challenges that come your way.
2. What existing strengths did you use to help you survive and thrive over the past year? What new strengths did you discover or develop?
3. Using your wildest imagination, what could your life look like five years from now if you leverage your strengths to their fullest extent?

Wishing you the best!

P.S. Check out my group coaching program for women starting in April.