The power of “Yes”

What would happen if we agreed instead of disagreed? Problems would be solved and there would be more action.
Charna Halpern et al
Truth in Comedy

In her book “Training to Imagine”, the author, Kat Koppet, recounts the following tale: “John Lennon met Yoko Ono at a showing of her artwork in New York. He browsed and eventually came upon a magnifying glass, which was hanging from the ceiling. Below it, Ono had placed a painter’s ladder, and Lennon climbed the ladder, took up the glass and held it to a tiny message written on the ceiling. The single word was “Yes.” Lennon said that it was that piece, with that specific word, that kindled his interest in Ono.”

Koppet’s book draw’s on practical improvisational theatre techniques that can be used to enhance creativity, teamwork and leadership. One of the rules of Improv is to say “Yes, and…”, accepting offers your partner makes and building on them. Otherwise, the scene will quickly be going down a one-way street towards a dead-end. 

Relate this to your own experience as a communicator. How often do you respond with “Yes, but…” when those you know or work with come to you with suggestions and ideas? How quickly do you become discouraged when you propose a bright idea yourself, only to met with “Yes, but…” followed by a series of reasons why something will not work? The simple fact is that those who prefer to say ‘Yes, and…’ will be rewarded by the adventures they have whilst those who say ‘No’ are rewarded for the safety they attain.

Give peace, harmony and fun a helping hand during this year’s festive season (and in the months that follow too) by swapping “Yes, but…” for “Yes, and…”