If you are looking for ways to help your team break out of a rut, think more expansively and take creative risks, try this activity at your next team retreat.

• Framing: As we continue to do this work together, we acknowledge that many before us have done similar work. And, they have nailed it. Just like these concert pianists who have perfected playing Beethoven’s Moonlight Sonata. I invite you to listen to some of the greats here.

• Watch 5-10 minutes of this YouTube video: Beethoven Moonlight Sonata 3rd Movement played by 24 pianists.

• After you stop the video, ask questions like: What did you notice? Is anyone familiar with this piece? What stood out to you in this video?

• Listen for the reflections generated. Particularly pay attention to how the same piece has been played over time, by various professionals. And, while they each add their own interpretation and expression, the piece sounds pretty much the same across the musicians.

• Now, consider this performance. Play the YouTube video: Pianist SHOCKS Audience With Moonlight Sonata.

• After the video, ask similar questions like: What did you notice? What stood out to you? How did this feel? How would you compare this to the music in the previous video?

• Following this discussion, turn the question inward: So how does this relate to the work we do?

• Take notes on the big take-aways and craft an action step or two on how you can move your work forward.

• Wrap up: Ask the team to offer a response to the “4 W Prompt”: After completing this activity, what is one “W” (Wish, Wonder, Wow, Wildcard) you have about our work as we move forward?

One big idea that’s come up over time when using these videos is that we can build upon what’s always been done. It’s successful. It’s beautiful. We can master the technicalities of our programming and service delivery. We can add our own expression. BUT if we want to set ourselves apart, if we want to generate the kind of energy we experienced in the second video, we need to take creative risks. We need to bring our own unique energy, passion, and sense of humor. We need to be vulnerable. We need to be willing to accept that not everyone will like it. But that it is creating joy, wonder and inspiration for others.

I’ll be curious to hear how you use this activity and what comes up for your team. ❤️