Cognitive Dissonance

Holding Space | The Secret Sauce for Growth

Our worlds have turned upside down in so many ways and we have had to find new and creative ways to adapt and grow within our new environments. When we stare our beliefs, ideas, or values in the face and have the stark realization that our world is contradicting those, we find ourselves experiencing an intense form of cognitive dissonance.

The truth of the matter is that our attention spans are dwindling. This instant gratification has subconsciously trained us to avoid being, stopping, and holding space.  The problem with this is that the craving associated with dopamine release creates subconscious addictive behavior that gets in the way of our ability to pause. Working through emotions takes time and attention, which runs contrary to too much of our lives.

As such, the aim of this article is to provide 8 tips, personal accounts of holding space, and resources to help you, your teammates, and those around you when holding space is the best option.

AUTHOR – Gretchen Reid is the Founder and Chief Change and Leadership Architect for Integrated Growth. She has spent over 25 years coaching leaders and creating award-winning Leadership and Talent Development Programs, directly contributing to multiple awards for her clients, including Fast Company’s 50 Most Innovative Companies, Forbes America’s Best Employers List, Forbes Best Employer for Diversity, and ASTD BEST. She is an Adjunct Professor of Change Management in the Strategic HR Masters Program, Denver University, University College. (MS, Career and Human Resource Development, Rochester Institute of Technology, BA, Psychology & Business Management, University of Rochester)