Choosing A Development Circle: Discover How to Find Your Tribe and Grow Together

I have a love/hate relationship with mediumship development groups and Circle. I believe they are an important part of spiritual development; not only do you hone your skills, but you will also meet other like-minded people. That being said, having attended quite a few over the years, below are some key things to consider before committing your time or money to a group.

1. Location

If you can visit the location before signing up, do so. Some buildings are just not suited for spiritual work, regardless of how much sage you burn.

I once attended a Circle in a room used for multiple purposes, addiction recovery, bereavement counselling, weight loss and other community-based groups. The room was filled with spirits; some were lost, and others were just unhappy.

And then there are places which feel like home the moment you walk through the door. As though all the guides are waiting for your, ready to cheer you on. I imagine them all sitting around eating popcorn or carrot sticks whilst the group works.

2. The Teacher

The first circle I attended was led by Medium with over 40 years of experience. The Medium had a solid reputation, but her teaching style was awful, objectively.

Hand movements were not allowed; she would shout at us for gesturing when giving messages. Being told off mid-message does not instil confidence.

Others teaching a class can be an ego trip (depending on the institution), and they will show more interest in those that need less help but make them look good. And those that require a bit more time and attention are often ignored. I’ve been in both groups, and neither is pleasant.

The teacher is key to setting the tone of the group. They should be approachable and patient, especially with a beginners’ group. If possible, speak to the teacher before you join; it doesn’t have to be a long interview, maybe just a five-minute phone call.

Also, research the teacher beforehand and ask for recommendations if in doubt.

A teacher should be supportive of everyone regardless of experience.

3. Teaching style/ Find out what you will learn

Each teacher will have their style; some will work with you if you are stuck and take the time to explain what is happening and how to improve.

Find out how the class will be taught. Will it be structured or more of a free for all? Will you spend 45 minutes of an hour-long class sitting in silence? Group work? Will you get a chance to practice with guests?

Traditionally, Circles were used as a time for mediums to come together and sit in the Power for an extended period to build the energy. Sitting in the Power is essential but shouldn’t take up half the lesson time. Otherwise, it becomes a meditation session.

4. Cliques

Remember being the newbie at school and everyone already had their cliques and inside jokes, and whilst they would be nice to you, they would not include you? Some circles can be like that, I recently attended a development course, and it was clear the people in the group had been with the teacher for years, and they all knew each other; whilst they would say hello, it was very cliquey, which the teacher, strangely enough, encouraged it.

On the other hand, I have attended courses where the group worked as a team, and the environment was warm and welcoming.

If the group does not work for you, find one that does. I took time out and had 1:1 sessions with a mentor I truly bonded with, and it turned out cheaper than many courses out there.

Again, ask if you can visit the class to get a feel of things.

5. Lastly, know what you want from the circle

Having a rough idea of what you want from a circle or development group is important. I now attend them because it allows me to practice with others, not necessarily because I want to do Platform work.

If you see a paid class, contact the school, and ask them if you can attend a session and see if it’s right for you. Alternatively, ask to speak to the teacher in advance of booking it. Most importantly, follow your intuition; if it doesn’t feel right, find something else. Ask your spirit team to guide you; they are always happy to help!