Have you ever been in a meeting where the energy is low, ideas are few, and the conversation just doesn’t flow? We’ve all been there. The good news is there are easy, proven ways to turn that around.
At oodle, we are passionate about creative and effective communication. We invest time in personal development through books, podcasts and workshops to help us collaborate better. Here are the highlights of what we’ve learned — practical tools that could help you energise your next meeting too.
Breaking Down Creative Blocks
Let’s start by identifying the common barriers. Blocks often come from assumptions, routines or anxieties. Even doing what has worked in the past can become limiting if it stops us from exploring new approaches.
The ultimate creative unlock? The simple phrase Yes And.
Why “Yes And” Works
- Yes encourages acceptance. It shifts your mindset from judgement to curiosity, helping you silence your inner critic.
- And helps you build on ideas, keeping the energy moving and the creativity growing.
This approach comes from improvisation techniques and has found its way into workplaces that value adaptability and innovation.
Spot the Common Blocks
Here are a few idea blockers to watch out for:
- “No” – A complete shutdown
- “Yes But” – A hidden version of no
- “Sort of” / “Maybe” / “Perhaps” – Vague words that weaken energy and commitment
Recognising these is the first step in overcoming them.
How to Overcome Creative Blocks
Want to make your team discussions more productive and enjoyable? Try these techniques:
- Welcome all offers
Ideas can come from anywhere — a colleague, an image, a casual conversation. Say “Yes And” to these and explore where they lead. - Stay positive
Encourage your own ideas and those of others. Create a space where it’s safe to try new things and take creative risks. - Be happy not knowing
Let go of the need to control every outcome. Embrace uncertainty and be open to where the process takes you. - Aim for abundance
When you think the ideas have run out, keep going. There is always another angle to explore. - Hold ideas lightly
Stay flexible. Don’t cling to one solution too early. Think of every idea as a stepping stone, not the final answer. - Don’t opt out
Avoid jumping to quick wins or retreating when something feels unclear. Stay curious and committed to the process. - Aim low
Celebrate progress, even if it’s small. Taking one step forward is better than staying stuck. - Collaborate freely
Be open to ideas from anyone, even if they seem unlikely. And keep making offers yourself — you never know what you might spark in others.
Small Shifts, Big Results
By applying Yes And, staying positive and open to the unknown, you can shift the tone of any meeting. These small shifts build trust, generate momentum and unlock ideas that might never emerge otherwise.
We have seen this approach energise our own work at oodle, and we hope it helps you too.
Ready to Unblock Your Next Creative Meeting?
Great collaboration doesn’t happen by accident. It starts with mindset and continues with simple habits like saying Yes And. Whether you’re brainstorming, problem-solving or planning, these tools can help you get the best from every conversation.
Happy collaborating!
