Yes, And...

Brainstorming Innovation

“Yes, and…” is a rule-of-thumb in improvisational comedy (improv) that suggests that a participant should accept what another participant has stated (“yes”) and then expand on that line of thinking (“and”). You go with the flow of the improv and build out the comedic sketch organically even if, and especially if, the topics introduced vary wildly. The key is that you don’t question the validity of the other person’s contribution, you find a way to connect to it that rings true to you and make it feel natural for the scene.

“Yes, and…” is also a helpful technique when you want to infuse innovation, creativity, and fresh ideas into your next brainstorming session. Whether you are working with others or simply trying to generate ideas on your own, here’s how the technique works:

• o First, start with an open mind, ready to receive ideas without judgment.


• o Second, present an idea – whether on your own or have another person begin.


• o Pay close attention to the details, get curious. Use active listening skills.


• o You don’t have to agree with the idea. In brainstorming sessions, often the ideas are not practical or implementable as stated but at this point in the “Yes, and...”, you don’t analyze the ideas. You don’t pick them apart or judge them. You aren’t really looking for the right solution at this point, you are looking to generate as many ideas as possible. You are encouraging each other/yourself with this positivity and striving to discover the creative, out-of-the-box ideas that will lead you ultimately to the solution you are looking to find.


• o Assume that every idea is at least 10% valid.


• o Now, pick out the 10% that you can agree with – this is where the “yes” comes into play. You respond to the idea by saying, “Yes, what I like about that idea is …"


• o The real magic of this technique is the gift of a compliment. How often do your colleagues say, “I like this…”, when you present an idea? How often do you tell others that you like some aspect of their contribution? Most often we jump right in – and on – the idea, picking it apart and finding the 90% wrong. That’s when we get defensive, conflict begins, and/or we clam up. In other words, fight or flight instincts kick in. Instead, find the 10% you do agree with and build upon it. Don’t generically comment that you like their idea, be specific about what you really like.


• o Okay, so after you share your compliment, then you add your idea to the brainstorming, “And… we could…”


• o If you are playing this game alone or with your team, then you keep going with the next idea. Each person continues with “Yes, what I like about that idea is… And… [new idea]”.

What’s really great about this technique is the positive energy and feelings that are generated for the participants. Like an improv troupe, you feed upon each other’s positive energy, gaining momentum and enthusiasm.

To keep that positive energy going, be mindful when you shift into decision making to ensure you are calm, clear-headed, and free of negative emotions. The “Yes, and…” time has concluded and now you are simply looking objectively at each idea, it’s merit, practicality, implementation-feasibility, etc. Assess each idea fairly based on transparent criteria.

The “Yes, and” technique is often taught in coach training and is featured by Shirzad Chamine as a way to tap into your Sage’s power of innovation in Positive Intelligence.

YES:

• • Accepting.


• • Acknowledging.


• • Appreciating.


• • Encouraging.


• • Feeling Heard.


• • Honoring Each Other.


• • Listening.


• • Understanding.


• • Validating.


• • Valuing Diverse Perspectives.

AND:

• • Adding.


• • Bringing Together.


• • Building.


• • Collaborating.


• • Connecting.


• • Creating.


• • Inspiring.


• • Unifying.


• • Uniting.


• • Wondering.

Give “Yes, and…” a try today and see how your energy, enthusiasm, and ideas grow!

“Unless you try to do something beyond what you have already mastered, you will never grow.”
- Unknown

Thank you for reading! I am an ICF Professional Certified Coach (PCC) specializing in Performance Coaching for Senior Executives, Flag Officers, and STEM professionals, and mental fitness for all. Don’t miss out on information and techniques that can take you to the next level. Schedule your one-on-one coaching here!

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