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Yes, And Summary

April 11, 2020 by Tom Goodwin

Yes, And is a guidebook to the principles and practices of improvisation comedy. Written by the executives of Second City, Chicago it talks about how to introduce creativity into the workplace via the mediums of observation, active listening, feedback, play and experimentation.

Yes, And Summary

Yes, And is one of the best books to read on the practice of improv comedy. 

Written from decades of experience, the book explores how the principles and exercises of improv comedy can be used to open minds, broaden debate and stimulate creativity in the workplace. 

Below are some of the key insights from the book.

Key Insights 

  • Adopting a mindset of Yes, And allows every idea to be acted upon and opens up engagement from the whole team.
  • Creative ideas emerge from Ensemble environments where each individual empowers and enables others to produce their best work.
  • When looking to build something from nothing, the essential ingredient is often an acceptance of Co-Creation where everyone brings a brick rather than a cathedral to a creative meeting.
  • The best works of comedy must have an ingredient of Authenticity in which essential truths are spoken, rules are challenges and actors operate on principles of respect rather than reverence. 
  • In improv the experience of Failure teaches us what is wrong with the product and how to improve it over time – a healthy position when ideas are presented as bricks rather than fully formed cathedrals.
  • Many creative insights can be gained from the practice of Follow The Follower where hierarchies are disrupted and status roles are temporarily suspended allowing for fresh insight and original perspectives.
  • There is a difference between listening to understand and listening to respond. The practice of active listening can be honed and explored by many improv comedy routines outlined by Second City.

 

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