Exercises

From 16Guidelines

Contents 1 Introduction to 16 Guidelines exercises 2 Exercises 2.1 Exploring the 16 Guidelines 2.2 Using The 16 Guidelines 2.3 Next steps

Introduction to 16 Guidelines exercises

These exercises are intended for use in groups who are studying the 16 Guidelines. They help us to explore the meaning and the potential of the 16 Guidelines.

Exercises

Exploring the 16 Guidelines

This is an effective introductory exercise that helps people to explore the guidelines and their potential. It also helps people to realise that the guidelines are not dogmatic commandments, but are best combined with fresh, independent thought.

1. With a group, each person can choose a card from the 16 Guidelines card deck.
   1. Identify others in the room with the same quality and gather for a discussion.
2. Once you are in groups, see if you can bring this quality into your discussion group.
3. Discuss:
   1. When and how is this quality used in a beneficial way?
   2. When and how can it be misused and become harmful?
   3. What is the key difference between these?
4. Where can you use this quality wisely in your daily life?

Using The 16 Guidelines

1. Spread out the 16 Guidelines cards, face up.
2. Choose the guideline that you feel is your strength or most natural for you. E.g. Responsibility. Reflect on how you have demonstrated this in a particular situation.
3. Choose the guideline that you feel is most challenging or you have a problem with. E.g. Patience. Reflect on what prevents you from demonstrating this quality more.
4. Combine the two guidelines in any order. How would you demonstrate the first quality with the second? How do the two strengthen or balance each other? How would you apply this in a practical situation that's relevant to you?
5. Switch around the order. How would you demonstrate the second quality with the first? Notice how the qualities change. Again, reflect on how these can be used directly in your life.

Next steps

Break into groups. Start by identifying a facilitator who can ensure that each group member has the opportunity to contribute to the following discussion points:

1. How can the guidelines make a practical difference to our lives over the next week, month or year?
2. How can we use the guidelines to improve the quality of our relationships with others?
3. How can we stay focused and motivated?

Some participants may have suggestions about how to disseminate the 16 Guidelines, but it is equally important for each person to consider how they can be used on a personal basis.

The group might choose to consider the following scenarios:

• In the home
• In the workplace
• In school
• In the community

Each group can write down one sentence, beginning with "May..." which represents your wishes for the future. At the end of the session, collect the sentences and read them aloud to create a group dedication. For example, if your group has been focusing on moderation, it could be something like:

"May we all contribute to the welfare of our planet and our fellow beings through consuming neither too much nor too little."