Thunderbolt Thinking Technique:
THOUGHT WALK
What is it? This technique re-energizes a tired team with a mini aerobic workout.
Why is it important? Walking is a natural mood elevator. I relieves stress, lowers blood
pressure, moves oxygen through the bloodstream. The resulting energy boost goes to the
brain, producing a sense of relaxation and freedom that lets you go back to work with more
energy.
How do I do it?
Midway through a tough, intense
meeting, have the participants stand up and take a walk around the room a few times. If
the room is small, go out into the hall or, better yet, outdoors.
Ask the participants to walk
quietly--don't let them discuss the meeting's issues during the walk. The idea is to clear
the mind.
Play music while the group is
walking; try to match your music to the mood of the group. For instance, if they seem
serious and even a little discouraged, try the theme from Rocky.
What are some ways to use this
TNT? This technique is effective for meetings that are
heavy with decision-making items, or when the topics are controversial, or when the group
is stuck. You can even create variations on a walk if you have time. We once worked with a
team that was trying to develop a new marketing strategy; there had been a lot of tugging
back and forth between two "factions" in the group, so we made use of the
conflict by holding a mini-Olympics. Jumping rope, walking and a "tug of war"
all helped to re-energize everyone's thinking, and injected a little fun into a tough
meeting. The camaraderie that emerged helped the group to resolve the issues and work
toward developing a cohesive plan.
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