What follows is a solid set of guiding principles for how we run our men’s groups — the purpose, structure, and how we treat each other. Every Solid As group will have its own feel and flavour, but at the core, they stick to these basics in spirit. Why? So men feel safe, respected, and supported — and so we don’t send any bloke into something off, unbalanced, or run by someone on a power trip.

Why We’re Here

The purpose of a Solid As Circle is simple: self-growth and self-responsibility.
No hidden agendas, no religion or politics pushed. Sometimes those things come up if it’s part of a man’s story — and that’s fine — but they’re not the focus.

No Bosses, No Profits, Just Blokes

Circles are peer-led — we all sit in the same dirt.
It’s free to attend.
No one’s getting rich off this.
No outside force sets the rules.
Some groups have a facilitator to get started, but he’s there as a guide, not a guru. He shares too, and helps the group get to a point where it can run strong on its own.

Who Can Join

Any man’s welcome — all backgrounds, ages, walks of life — as long as he’s willing to do the work and show up for others too.
That said, this isn’t therapy. It’s not a mental health service.
If a man’s struggling hard or unstable, a group might not be the right space — and that’s okay.
We’ve got to protect the space for everyone. Sometimes a group may need to say no to someone, or ask a man to step out for a bit.

The Sharing Circle

This is the backbone of what we do.
One man speaks, holding a talking stick or whatever the group uses. The rest of us listen. Properly. No cutting in unless it helps him find his words or stay on track.
Standing to speak can help get you in your body — up to each group and theme.

Speak From Your Own Life

Use “I” statements. Share your feelings. Own your story.
We don’t blame others or play the victim.
We respect everyone — no sweeping statements, no preaching like we’ve got the one truth. Just your truth, spoken straight.

Your Space, Your Boundaries

Each man’s responsible for his own safety and limits.
That means showing up sober. No booze, no drugs, no violence — ever.

What’s Shared, Stays Here

Confidentiality is everything.
The circle only works if there’s trust.
And trust only builds when a man knows his story stays in the circle. Every share is valid. No judgement.

Feedback — Only If Asked For

Feedback’s part of the growth. But it’s not about telling a man what to do.
We offer insights or options, not advice or fixes.
Keep it sharp, kind, and clear.
Don’t pile on or start back-and-forth convos.
A man can ask for feedback, or say no thanks.

Challenge Is Healthy

Growth needs a bit of edge.
Challenge each other — but with respect.
And if a man’s not ready to take it, that’s fine too.
In time, groups build the muscle for more challenge.

Take the Risk

Trying something new, mucking it up — that’s all part of the work.
A strong circle can hold a bit of chaos and help each man grow through it.

Trauma Work — With Care

Sometimes big stuff shows up.
That’s okay — but it’s got to be handled with care.
We don’t want to re-traumatise anyone.
That means knowing each man’s limits, knowing the signs, and knowing how to hold each other safely when the deep stuff surfaces.

Show Up Like You Mean It

The group works best when every man commits.
That means being there each week, staying in the loop, and being steady.
It also means setting boundaries in your life so you can show up for this work — no double-booking, no half-in-half-out.

Every Group Builds Its Own Culture

Each group creates its own rituals, rules, and way of running — but always within the bones of these principles.
That’s what keeps things clean, clear, and grounded — no egos, no hidden motives, no culty vibes.
Any changes to these guidelines should be agreed on by the whole group.

Got Thoughts?

If you reckon something in here could be clearer or stronger — we’re open.
Flick us a message and let’s have a yarn.