The Spaces to Change

‘The magic circles shift and transform the profane to the mystical as the individual moves from one status to another’ A. Van Gennep

Throughout history, human beings have marked the great transitions of life with the rites of passage; rituals that allow us to move between identities and take up new roles. These rituals mark the boundaries of the often uncanny and sacred spaces of liminality; the spaces between worlds. In liminality we let go of the comfort of the known and begin to experiment with the often terrifying potential of the unknown. We can explore what may be and prepare ourselves for new challenges with a new self of self. Even in our modern world, the echoes and memories of these rituals permeate our organisations and our societies.

An understanding of liminality is then essential for the design of transformational development programmes. In the structures and symbols of the rites of passage we may find the guidance and confidence we need to support both our clients and ourselves through the intensity and chaos that is associated with any significant change of identity.

In this webinar we will explore the fundamental features of liminal space and the possible implications for leadership development. We will consider how we may intentionally create modern rites of passage to help our clients take up new roles and better support their organisations and societies, as they adapt to face a changing and uncertain world.

The webinar will also include references for further reading and additional materials, including a chapter from the recently published book 'A Jungian Approach to Coaching: The Theory and Practice of Turning Leaders into People' by Laurence Barrett.

It is intended for experienced coaches, and consultants who are actively involved in the design and delivery of leadership development programmes