“No but…, Yes and…” is a fun and engaging icebreaker that encourages collaboration and creativity. Participants will take turns building a story, adding to each other’s ideas, and saying “yes, and…” or “No, but…” to keep the story going.

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🎓 How to use it

Gather participants in a circle and explain the rules of the game. Each person will take turns adding a sentence to a story, building off of the previous person’s idea. Each sentence should start with “Yes, and…” or “No, but…” to keep the story flowing. Encourage participants to be creative and add interesting twists to the story.

🎯 Objective

The objective of “No but, Yes and” is to encourage collaboration, positivity, and creativity among participants. By building off of each other’s ideas, participants will learn to work together and think outside the box.

🤔 When to use it

“No but, Yes and” is perfect for any team or group looking to improve collaboration and creativity. It can be used as an icebreaker to kick off a meeting, or as a team-building exercise to strengthen relationships and foster innovation.

🥳 Fun facts and good to know

“No but, Yes and” was originally created as an improv exercise to help actors build scenes together. It has since been adapted as a team-building exercise in various industries. In addition to being a fun and engaging icebreaker, “No but, Yes and” can also help improve communication skills and encourage active listening.

📔 Sources

"Improv Games: Yes, and…” by the Spolin Center

"The Improv Book: Improvisation for Theatre, Comedy, Education and Life" by Alison Goldie

"Improv Wisdom: Don’t Prepare, Just Show Up" by Patricia Ryan Madson

🧰 Quick takeaway

“No but, Yes and” is a simple but effective icebreaker that encourages collaboration, creativity, and positivity. By building off of each other’s ideas, participants can learn to work together, communicate effectively, and think outside the box.

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