Benefits of shared reflection
1. Synchronization during change
Shared reflection helps align people, especially in moments of change or crisis. When changes occur rapidly and provoke variety of reactions, collective reflection helps identify what each person needs and how to respond effectively to the situation.
2. Learning and developing a common understanding
With reflective practices, it is possible to create a shared understanding of the situation, identify bottlenecks, and plan necessary adjustments. It also facilitates the exchange of information and perspectives, particularly when there’s disagreement or uncertainty within the group.
3. Enthusiasm and readiness for action
Shared reflection can spark enthusiasm and ensure everyone is ready to act. Skipping reflection and rushing through projects without engagement can lead to dissatisfaction and even staff turnover.
Why is shared reflection important in companies?
In companies, shared reflection fosters sustainable change and builds trust. Leaders and managers play a key role by creating conditions for open dialogue. Over time, reflection strengthens team spirit, improves project quality, and supports strategy execution. While quick decisions are sometimes necessary, reflection lays the foundation for implementing changes more smoothly and with less resistance to change.
5 Quick wins to increase shared reflection
1. Create a reflective culture
Reflection doesn’t happen automatically; it requires space and time. Start small and make reflection part of the daily routine. For example, at the end of a meeting, dedicate five minutes to discuss: “How does this situation feel right now?”
2. Leaders as role models
Promoting reflection starts with leaders. They can initiate reflection through their actions and lower the threshold for others. For example: “This decision felt challenging to me; what thoughts does it evoke in you?”
3. Use conversation starters
Leverage shared materials, like videos or images, to open discussions. A simple visual aid can help the team understand where they are and where they’re heading.
4. Follow the steps of reflection
A clear structure makes the reflection process easy. For instance:
- Recognizing emotions: what thoughts and feelings arise?
- Considering meaning: What do these emotions and reactions reveal about the situation?
- Evaluating action: Do we need follow-up measures, or is reflection alone sufficient?
5. Start with your team
Start practicing reflection on a small scale. For example, include a short video or instructions with a meeting invitation explaining a group reflection to be held at the end of the session. Introduce a simple process and encourage everyone to participate.
Make reflection a part of work life
Shared reflection is not just a way to think but an essential part of professional growth and effective teamwork. It helps articulate emotions, make the invisible visible, and create shared understanding. While this process might not be easy for everyone at first, with practice, it can become a natural part of daily routines.
Reflection also develops professional interaction skills and enhances teams’ ability to face challenges. When this skill is integrated into a company’s culture, it results in a stronger shared vision and more effective collaboration. Everyone knows how to reflect on their emotions—the question is, how can this be incorporated into professional practices?
Through shared reflection, companies can not only achieve their goals and vision, but also create a work environment where everyone feels included and valued. Now it’s your turn to start—bring shared reflection into your team and see its impact!
Want to see reflection in practice? Read how reflection can be used to develop interaction distribution.
