In the book The Art of Possibility by Rosamund Stone Zander and Benjamin Zander they speak of the importance of generating a “spark of possibility” to engage and enroll people around you. It is about lighting a fire of passion in yourself and others that feeds off itself as you work together toward a common vision in which everyone contributes and plays an important role.
Sounds wonderful, yet is it realistic in a world of hectic schedules and never-ending to-do lists? We would passionately chime in – YES! In fact, precisely because of these things it is all the more important.
Whether your team is embarking on a new business venture, creating a new product line or diving into a new mode of consumer exploration…igniting the spark of possibility in the hearts and minds of everyone involved will determine how far you can go…and how successful you will be. It is this depth of passion and commitment that transforms an ordinary “have to do” project into an amazing “want to do” experience.
That is why to jump-start each new venture, Sparxx recommends including an activity that allows every team member to express what success looks like and feels like for them . . . both professionally AND personally. Here is a sample flow:
STEP 1: Give each person the opportunity to capture “what success means to me.” The type of activity can take many forms such as journaling, selecting a picture or o
bject that represents it, creating a collage, building it (with Legos, Crayola Model Magic or random craft materials), drawing a metaphorical picture, or even writing it in the form of a haiku! It can be done as individuals or in small teams. It can be done in the moment or given as a prework assignment. The key is to help people to get in touch with the heart of the experience and outcome they wish to create.
STEP 2: Invite each person or small team to share their creation and story with the rest of the team. This process of sharing will give voice to each person’s vision and deepen the emotional connections and commitment people have to the outcomes.
STEP 3: Engage in a group discussion to identify core themes and bring to light and life a unified team vision. This forum will plant seeds of collective inspiration to fuel the work together.
So the next time you are ready to embark on something new…take the time or MAKE the time upfront to envision success together. With this in mind and heart, you and your team will be ready to create amazing possibilities.
And just so you know, this is a great personal practice too!
