Challenge, Blockers, Enablers

Pictures hold so much meaning. Each graphic element has their own meaning and could be interpreted differently based on the individual. This method is designed to help individuals navigate challenges by shifting their perspective through visual stimuli. By engaging in attentive listening and reflection, participants can uncover insights and solutions that may not have been apparent initially.

• Raise the participant’s awareness of a situation or issue.
• Open new interpretations or associations with the chosen photo.

• Picture card set
• icebreaker.online for online sessions
• Available on SessionLab

1. Set the scene.
   Prepare the workshop space and spread the picture cards for display and selection.

2. Choose an image for a challenge.
   Allow participants to take the time to look at the pictures you prepared. Invite them to choose an image that represents a current challenge they are facing. This could involve anything that they are struggling with, whether it is personal or professional.

3. Group the participants in pairs and explore.
   Set a timer for your participants—ideally for 15 minutes. Once paired up, tell them not to disclose what their issue is . Now guide them through the following process:

   • Person A should show their chosen picture without any context and without interrupting or asking questions.

   • Person B is expected to share his/her observations only based on what can be seen in the picture . This depends entirely on individual interpretation and can open new perspectives and image associations. If he/she runs out of words, give him/her time to find new ones. Person A must listen and notice what Person B perceives in the picture.

   • Once it is halfway through the allotted time, remind the participants to switch, allowing Person B to share his/her photo while Person A speaks about it.

   • Guide the participants to come back to the whole group.

4. Help identify blockers.
   Ask a prompt question to help identify blockers, e.g., “What is holding you back?” Guide participants to choose a random picture card (i.e., picture cards facing down) representing their answer. Give each of them a paper to write on and let them write their thoughts and reflections. Let the words flow.

5. Expound on the issue and find enablers.
   Ask the question, “What resource of yours can you activate?” and let participants choose another picture for their answer. This shall be the third picture they have at hand. Allow them to reflect briefly and (optionally) take notes.

6. Guide the participants to go back in pairs.
   Each should be given time to present their two new pictures (blocker and enabler) and share what they see or like about them. Let them ponder how the images reflect their answers and what new perspectives they bring.

7. Bring the workshop to a closing.
   Invite everyone to get back together. Open a space for sharing and provide a closing remark to end the session officially.