write:Blocking: “I believe this proposal would be majorly detrimental to our group because either it goes against our fundamental principles or it would lead to adisastrous outcome. â€

who’s responsible
timelines
etc.).At the point that the facilitator calls for consensus (Step 6)
participants typically havethe following options:Agreement: “I support this proposal and am willing to abide by and help implementit.”Stand Aside: “I have major concerns with the proposal and agree to stand aside andlet the group proceed with it.” The choice to stand aside may be based on (but is notlimited to) any of the following:Disagreement with the proposal or the process used to reach the decisionPersonal values or principlesPersonal impact or need—for example
“I can’t afford this” or “I’d have toleave the group.”If someone stands aside
their name and reason are traditionally recorded in theminutes. That person is relieved of lead implementation responsibilities yet is stillbound to follow the decision.Blocking: “I believe this proposal would be majorly detrimental to our group
because either it goes against our fundamental principles or it would lead to adisastrous outcome.” Note that none of the following are appropriate reasons toblock:To get your way or because you prefer a different proposal
or no proposalBecause you’d have to leave the group if the proposal passedTradition: Because things have always been done a certain wayBecause the proposed action doesn’t fit your personal needs (or finances)To fulfill your personal moral values or how you want to liveIn order to function and prevent tyranny of the minority
consensus-based groupsrely on having a robust response to inappropriate blocks. The form of this responsevaries but usually includes both procedural and cultural elements.Abstain: “I choose not to participate in the making of this decision.” It is typicallyused because a participant feels uninformed or not ready to participate.Critical Thinking Question: Explain why following the consensus guidelines will result in more support forthe implementation of a decision rather than simply voting on it.494