The 60-Minute Agenda

Welcome to Your Monthly Hour of Connection
0-10 min

Welcome & Settle In

Host: Arrive 10 minutes early to secure seating.

  • 0-5 min: Greet arrivals, help with drinks, light mingling.
  • 5-10 min: Official welcome and group introduction.
"Welcome, everyone. Thank you for choosing connection today."
10-20 min

Good News Round

Ice Breaker Question:
"What's one small, good thing that happened to you or that you noticed this week? It can be as simple as a stranger's smile or your coffee being just right."

  • Each person shares (1-2 minutes max).
  • No cross-talk during shares—just listening.

Purpose: We start by training our attention toward what's working.

20-45 min

Discussion Prompt of the Month

Topic: The Difference Between Optimism and Delusion

Introduction:

"Tonight we're exploring a tension many of us feel: wanting to be hopeful without ignoring reality. Where does healthy optimism end and harmful delusion begin?"

Discussion Questions (choose 1-2 that resonate):

  • "When has optimism served you well? When has it maybe kept you from addressing something important?"
  • "Is there a difference between 'optimism' (believing things can get better) and 'toxic positivity' (denying negative feelings)? Where's that line for you?"
  • "What's one realistic reason for hope in your community right now? What's one challenge that needs clear-eyed attention?"
  • "How do we stay open-hearted without being naive?"

Ground Rules:

  • One person speaks at a time
  • No problem-solving unless asked
  • "Yes, and..." instead of "Yes, but..."
  • It's okay to disagree; it's not okay to disrespect
45-55 min

Closing Challenge

Assignment:

"This month, notice one person who seems isolated or having a hard day. Offer one small, specific kindness: buy their coffee, give a genuine compliment, or simply make eye contact and smile. Don't make it weird—just human."

Why: Optimism becomes real through action. Hope becomes tangible through connection.

55-60 min

Logistics & Goodbyes

  • Confirm next month's date and location.
  • Reminder: No preparation needed for next time.
  • Thank everyone for their presence.
"See you next month. Take good care."

Host Notes & Tips

Your Role:

What Success Looks Like:

Troubleshooting:

Remember: You're not building a movement alone. You're hosting a conversation.
You're not fixing the world. You're connecting neighbors.
That's more than enough.