Appreciative Inquiry (AI) is an approach that values what is working well and helps to bring to life new possibilities. This approach generates new learnings by becoming aware of assumptions we make and being open to re-framing or changing how we think about ourselves, and the people and world around us.
At the heart of Appreciative Inquiry are seven principles that encourage us to be curious. They include being mindful of the language that we use; focusing on how we imagine the future; valuing the strengths of ourselves and those around us; working with, not on, others; sharing stories to inspire; and focusing on the power of conversations and relationships.
An Instant Delight involves sharing one ‘thing’, however small, that brings a moment of delight to their day.
Focusing on something that brings a smile to our face, or makes us feel good can be a source of energy and connection.
LIFE (Learning and Innovating from Everyday Experiences or Events) sessions aim to take stories from our everyday practice and promote discussions. The sharing and discussions help us to collaboratively talk about what we want to celebrate, learn from, or explore ideas to take into our practice.
QUeST – Qualities and Strengths, is a tool to encourage conversations about people’s qualities and strengths. The tool uses everyday language to expand our thinking about what we might name as qualities and strengths and how we can speak to our own, and others' qualities and strengths.
