Purpose: To practise structured debriefing using lived experience.
Instructions:
-
Choose an Event
Select one of the following:-
A recent mediation session you facilitated or observed.
-
A professional interaction that was challenging (e.g., a difficult client meeting, team conflict, or teaching session).
-
An emotionally charged situation from your professional context.
-
-
Apply the Model
Work through the What? So What? Now What? framework in writing:
-
What? (Facts) → Write down the sequence of events as objectively as possible.
-
So What? (Meaning/Impact) → Reflect on what stood out, what was challenging, and how you felt during/after.
-
Now What? (Learning/Application) → Identify one concrete action, skill, or insight you can carry forward.
-
-
Optional Peer Sharing
If you’re in a training group you'll be asked to share your reflection with a partner. The partner’s role is not to give advice, but to listen, ask clarifying questions, and validate insights. -
Self-Evaluation Questions:
-
Did this process reduce the emotional intensity of the event?
-
What did you learn about your own mediator style?
-
Was there anything in your reflection that suggests the need for supervision rather than just debriefing?
-
Example (Written)
-
What? A mediation participant raised their voice and accused me of bias. I redirected, but internally I felt rattled.
-
So What? I realise I take criticism personally, which can affect my neutrality.
-
Now What? In future, I’ll practise grounding techniques and seek feedback from a peer supervisor on managing accusations calmly.
This type of journaling-based debriefing can be integrated as a recurring reflective practice activity for your professional practice but can also use it to assist others.