Partner Agreements
The following will be acknowledged each session:
- Maintaining Confidentiality: Respect each other’s stories. You may share your own story, but not someone else’s. Everyone is responsible for their own feelings and reactions. For example, if someone shares a traumatic experience, others should not comment or offer advice, but rather show empathy and understanding.
- Challenge by Choice: Encourage each other through invitations, not pressure. Each person is responsible for their own growth and healing. Give space for mistakes, learning, and growth. For instance, instead of telling someone to fix a problem, ask how they would like to handle it and offer support if needed.
- Creating a Safe Space: Our goal is to foster a safe space where full participation is encouraged. This is like a sandbox for discovery, without knowing what you will find. The sandbox is a place to explore without judgment, where ideas can be tested and developed without fear of criticism. Activities such as brainstorming, role-playing, and group discussions are encouraged.
- Laboratory Environment: Be willing to learn about your partner and allow them to be themselves without judgment. Create an atmosphere of trust and understanding. This enables partners to feel comfortable taking risks and expressing themselves openly, fostering better communication and understanding. When your partner expresses an idea or feeling, listen and try to understand their perspective instead of immediately critiquing or offering solutions.
- Self-Care: Take care of yourself wholeheartedly. If you need a break, take it. Breaks can reduce burnout and keep you focused and productive. Remember that taking care of yourself is crucial for taking care of your family. Practicing deep breathing, meditation, or engaging in hobbies can help you feel refreshed and energized.
- Respecting Values: Acknowledge that everyone has a different value system. Listen to and respect others’ values, even if you disagree. Understanding and tolerance are key. Hold on to your own values and adhere to them. For example, some people value hard work while others value creativity.
- Respecting Morals: Recognize and respect various belief systems about what is right or wrong. Morals are shaped by past experiences, education, and beliefs. Be aware of your own morality and respect others’. Strive to understand and accept different moral systems, even if you do not agree with them. For instance, opinions on issues like eating animals, polygamy, or abortion may vary.
We must respect this agreement even after the sessions are over, remaining accountable for our actions. Despite obstacles, individuals continue to grow and progress towards their goals. Strive to be open and honest in communication with each other.
Both partners must agree to this before beginning their coaching sessions.