Step 1: Introduction

The facilitator discusses the objective of the training, sets up ground rules, and explains the exercise.

An example introduction

This training invites you to reflect with self-compassion and emotional distance on reactive behavior in situations where you might have unintentionally committed a micro-aggression. The purpose of this reflection is to provide you with tools to process your experience and to teach you to respond in a non-defensive, proactive manner in the future. 

Before we get started, I would like to set some ground rules so we can all engage in open and productive dialogue with each other where everyone feels supported and respected.  

1. Keep your attention to yourself. We might be here with a group, but this training is for you. Turn inward and allow yourself to be in the moment.  
2. If someone else is speaking, listen actively. There is no need to respond to someone else. Everyone is on their own journey. 
3. The facilitator will respond to unproductive and disrespectful behavior or comments.  

Do you have a suggestion for additional rules that can promote open and productive discussion?  

First, we will take a few minutes to do some breath work to lower our heart rate and relax our bodies, this is so we can approach the exercise from an open and calm state of mind. Then, I will delve a little deeper into micro-aggressions and defensive behavior from my own firsthand experiences. Finally, you will participate in a journaling exercise, and we will end the training with a group conversation.