In 2023 I became a LEGO® Serious Play facilitator and it transformed the way I facilitate group coaching and team workshops.
In the bustling landscape of modern workplaces, fostering a sense of connection and inclusion among team members is paramount. Enter LEGO Serious Play, a dynamic methodology that transcends traditional brainstorming techniques, offering a unique avenue for teams to collaborate, innovate, and find solutions together. At its core, LEGO Serious Play harnesses the power of play and creativity to unlock the full potential of every participant, ensuring that each voice is heard and valued.
So, what exactly is LEGO Serious Play? Developed by the LEGO Group in the late 1990s, this innovative approach is far more than just building with LEGO bricks. It’s a facilitated process where participants use LEGO elements to construct metaphorical models that represent their thoughts, ideas, and experiences related to a given topic or challenge. These models serve as tangible expressions of individual and collective insights, sparking meaningful discussions and driving collaborative problem-solving. As a facilitator and coach, I have the privilege of being able to hold this space for others.
One of the most profound aspects of LEGO Serious Play is its ability to give everyone a voice. In a traditional meeting setting, certain individuals may dominate the conversation, while others may hesitate to speak up. However, when participants engage in hands-on building activities, barriers to communication are lowered, and individuals of all personality types and communication styles are encouraged to contribute. Whether you’re an introvert (like me) who prefers expressing ideas through tactile experiences or an extrovert who thrives on verbal dialogue, LEGO Serious Play provides a level playing field for all.
At its essence, LEGO Serious Play is about more than just building models; it’s about building connections. By actively engaging with one another through a medium that is both familiar and engaging, teams strengthen their bonds and develop a deeper understanding of their colleagues’ strengths, experiences, and perspectives. In a world where feeling connected and valued is more important than ever, LEGO Serious Play offers a powerful tool for building inclusive, cohesive teams that thrive on collaboration and creativity.
In conclusion, LEGO Serious Play is a transformative methodology that empowers teams to harness the power of play, creativity, and collaboration to tackle challenges and drive innovation. By giving everyone a voice, a chance to be creative, and an opportunity to contribute to shared solutions, LEGO Serious Play fosters a culture of inclusivity, connection, and belonging. So, whether you’re looking to strengthen team dynamics, work on leadership develop, or create a new curriculum, consider giving LEGO Serious Play a try—you might just be surprised by the outcomes. Check out the video below from my recent LSP Workshop with LYFTA.
