Widen the Lens
Goal
create connected context and justification
if this is true, what else is true
Instructions
Widen the lens explanation
-- do physical demo (expand hands to show taking in more)
What is behind the part of the world that you can not see?
What truth is just out of view? (literally or “true about the world”)
What else must be true in the world?
Expand the view -- see other patterns
What does this mean in bigger picture?
Expand time / space / geography / history
Exercise
Groups of 4
First A says word, B says word, and C justifies the two together with a narrative, idea, or invention of some sort. D yes and’s C in a way that “widens the lens”
All say word at the same time
Example:
A: “Dog”
B: “Parachute”
C: A parachute used in the army for military dogs to be dropped into dangerous territories
D: None of the enemy soldiers can resist petting the dog. It calms them down which allows for peace talks to begin.
(new round begins)
B: Parachute
C: Raptor
D: A new discovery was made that some species of dinosaurs had extremely thin skin which could fill with air if they were pushed over a cliff
E: These are the predecessors of the flying squirrels we know today
Background
jim's game
Author
I help teams connect, collaborate, and perform at their best in both virtual and in-person environments. As an executive and leadership coach, I design highly engaging experiences where people can think together, navigate challenges, and strengthen the way they work. With a background in leadership coaching, facilitation, and applied improvisation, I create interactive retreats, conferences, and networking events that energize participants and create lasting impact. My work creates the conditions for psychological safety, honest communication, and deep collaboration, allowing teams to build trust, navigate challenges, and achieve meaningful results together. I am deeply committed to mission-driven organizations. As a board member of the International Applied Improvisation Network, I partner with nonprofit and social justice leaders to help their teams thrive in fast-changing environments.
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