A spirit and a setting where we invite the ‘stranger’ and learn in public.
Spirit: Intentionally create a supportive environment
Gracious Space calls forth attributes such as compassion, curiosity and humor which we each embody.
When we bring these attributes with us into relationships, we are “being” Gracious Space. The spirit of
Gracious Space includes the spirit you bring, the spirit of the group, and tapping into a greater spirit of
the work. The spirit of Gracious Space helps us to be the change we want to see in the world.
Setting: Pay attention to the physical environment
Gracious Space has a physical dimension that can support or impede our ability to work with others.
By paying attention to simple hospitality, comfort and the diversity or history of a place, you can
create a thoughtful setting of Gracious Space. Setting includes ensuring the approach complements
your goal and being intentional about adding items that can enhance Gracious Space.
Invite the 'Stranger': Intentionally seek the other
This is the willingness and ability to welcome the other and seek out people, ideas and perspectives even if these are different, inconvenient or uncomfortable. Inviting the 'stranger' asks us to determine
who we need in the room, who or what is the stranger or strange idea, and what we can learn from the
stranger. We need the 'stranger' when considering complex and new ideas, lest we take narrow-minded
or short term actions. It’s helpful to remember we are each the stranger to someone else.
Learn in Public: Let go and open up to possibility
In Gracious Space people listen more and judge less. Learning in public asks us to suspend judgment,
take risks and pay attention to our learning. It asks us to see difference as an opportunity to learn
something new. In this space we can work better across boundaries, share diverse perspectives, work
through conflict, discover transformative solutions and carry out innovations for change.
To create Gracious Space:
 Bring your spirit
 Attend to the physical setting
 Invite the ‘stranger’
 Learn together
Center for Ethical Leadership
www.ethicalleadership.org
center@ethicalleadership.org