A 'third space' is a conceptual space that exists between two familiar spheres or paradigms. It is an in-between space, between, for example, two individuals, groups, cultures or values.
In this way, a third space belongs to neither one nor the other. It is a judgment-free, neutral place for exploration and encounter. A place to build bridges.
It takes courage to seek out this place, because when faced with differences or friction, we often tend to take detours, avoid each other, ignore or push through.
For resilient collaboration, access to a third space is precisely where solutions are readily available.
A third space is a place where creativity, innovation and dialogue thrive by exploring different drives, perspectives and approaches.
Guided by a third space facilitator, anyone can safely and honestly examine how these drives and perspectives influence their own actions and relationships together.
Why was 'a third space' created?
In our work as (team) coaches, the two drives: power and love continuously float to the surface. How you relate as a person to both drives influences all your relationships. The work of Adam Kahane (author of the book Power and Love) gave us the impetus for a joint study with interesting results and even more research questions.
Tamara Hofman
"My first experience with 'power' was in Malaysia where I worked as a junior engineer on the building site of the twin towers.
There, I was confronted with extreme power dynamics and ever since I am fascinated by these dynamics, trying to understand why this happens and how it is experienced.
After years of working with leaders and just by living my life, I have encountered the inspirational and creative side of power. Especially when it is used from a place of connection."
Carianne Vermaak
"As an introvert, I often felt powerless during the first years that I lived and worked in Israel. How would I ever get included? Why doesn't anyone listen to each other? Could it all be a bit more quiet? It made me very unhappy to have to adapt to the huge cultural difference.
I had to learn to look, think and connect 'more spaciously’. And by doing so, I was also able to hold my own discomfort more easily. In the end there was less judgement, more humor and above all more power to create something together."
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Anke Tusveld
"Since I was young, I am drawn towards harmony. For a long time, I used to see friction as something that I had to avoid at all costs. I simply never learned how to handle this.
Since I started approaching friction or conflict differently )as an interesting adventure that I can start to investigate' all kinds of surprises have come to light that were hidden 'behind'
the possible conflicts.
In addition, my collaboration with people who are naturally more driven by 'power' has improved because I understand them better."
