Ideation/Creativity

Yes, And

Use "Yes, And" to build on ideas together. It creates a culture of expansion. Forget restriction.

Duration
10 mins
Group Size
3-20
Category
Ideation/Creativity
Difficulty
Easy
Participants will practice building on ideas. They will reduce idea-blocking. The group will create a supportive brainstorming space. Apply improv to innovation.
Participants will show "Yes, And" in practice. They will demonstrate improvisational building skills. Expect creative collaboration.
Some find this exercise hard because it's not how we usually think. Explain that building on an idea isn't agreement. It's about exploration. People often think "Yes, And" means no disagreement. Remind them it's brainstorming, not a final decision. Model the behavior yourself.
This exercise uses "Yes, And" for collaborative ideas. It replaces idea-blocking "Yes, but..." with expansive "Yes, and..."

  1. Explain the "Yes, And" principle.

  2. Do a practice round with a light scenario.

  3. Apply the principle to a real brainstorm.

  4. Spot and fix "Yes, but" thinking.


Key Questions:

  • How can we expand this idea?

  • What if we respond with 'Yes, and' instead of 'Yes, but'?

  • How does it feel when ideas are built upon?

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For Facilitators

  • Review participant profiles and expectations
  • Prepare all materials and supplies
  • Test technology and room setup

For Participants

  • Complete pre-session survey
  • Review background materials
  • Prepare examples or case studies

Unlock Pre-Work Requirements

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  • None

Unlock Materials Required

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  • Facilitator Guide (PDF)
  • Participant Workbook Template
  • Presentation Slides
  • Printable Materials

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