GROUND RULES FOR GROUPS

Our community brings together women with a diverse set of professional and cultural backgrounds
and a wide range of life experiences. We look at the world through different lenses, so no matter
how close we become, we will naturally have differences of opinion.

We value our differences and believe that every member has important ideas and perspectives to
share. We are aware, however, that it’s essential for the environment in which our community
operates to be trusting – a place where everyone can feel respected and psychologically safe.
To move us toward that goal, we have established eight Ground Rules for group discussions and
activities. We expect every member who participates in a group to understand these principles and
abide by them.

1. Keep discussions focused on the agreed-upon topic and time commitments. If you want to move
to a different topic, even for a little while, ask the group whether they are okay with it. If they say
no, accept it. It’s never okay to commandeer a conversation for your own purposes.

2. Permit only one speaker at a time and avoid side conversations, which are inconsiderate to the
person who is speaking.

3. Listen more than you speak.

4. Keep your mind open and assume good intent. If you disagree with something that is said, be
curious, not judgmental or argumentative. Focus on an issue when disagreeing, never on a
person’s choices or character.

5. Be aware that words and ideas you have no problem with might be hurtful or offensive to other
women.

6. If someone is hurt or offended by something you've said, simply apologize. Never question their
feelings or point of view.

7. If someone hurts or offends you, take a moment to decide how (and whether) to respond. Try to
understand what happened. Was it deliberate, or just a misunderstanding? Choose to respond
intentionally instead of reacting instinctively.

8. Address private conflicts in private, not in the group.