For the 2nd workshop today, I was glad I stayed in the Professional Development track. As an information hound and being in this business for many years, it's always fun when I feel like I learned a new way to approach innovation. And that was what this was all about.

Michelle James, Chief Emergence Officer of The Center for Creative Emergence, took us through several exercises designed to break us away from the common fears we all have: worry about not looking good, fear of saying something stupid, etc.

The Improv Principles and Improv Mindsets

she discussed (and we experienced) are all about acting "as if" what others are giving you is a gift...and then "adding to it." And from that, there is freedom. Feeling free, and that you will be accepted allows teams to STOP worrying about fears and in that moment, begin to create. I love that:)

She also mentioned how natural it is to come to the edge of your comfort zone with resistance but that forcing through it (i.e. 'playing' by these principles), a new environment is created with those around you...and those who feel like they helped create, also feel as if they own the outcome!

April Bell is Principal and Founder of April Bell Research Group, a boutique, full-service marketing research firm, committed to delivering fresh insights you can act on! Learn more at aprilbellresearch.com.