open · Icebreaker, Team Building, Creative Thinking · 2–5 min · 2-6 people · low energy

Positive-Negative Storytelling

Positive-Negative Storytelling is a quick and engaging icebreaker that sparks creativity and connection by having participants collaboratively build a story with alternating positive and negative events. This exercise encourages optimistic thinking and demonstrates how challenges can lead to unexpected opportunities.

When to use Positive-Negative Storytelling

Use this method at the beginning of a workshop or meeting to energize the group, foster collaboration, and promote a positive mindset.

What it solves

Lack of creative ideas, Stiff or awkward group dynamics, Negative or pessimistic attitudes

How to run Positive-Negative Storytelling, step by step

  1. Form pairs or small groups of up to six people. (2 minutes)
  2. Instruct one person to begin a fictional story with an opening sentence. (30 seconds)
  3. The next person adds a negative event to continue the story. (30 seconds)
  4. Alternate turns, adding positive and negative events to build the story. (2-3 minutes)
  5. Encourage the story to reach a natural and positive conclusion.

Materials needed

  • None

Facilitator tips

  • Encourage participants to be creative and have fun with their contributions.
  • Remind participants to listen actively and build upon the previous contributions.

Common pitfalls

  • Stories can become disjointed or nonsensical. Encourage participants to try and connect their contributions to the overall narrative.
  • Participants may struggle to think of positive or negative events. Offer prompts or examples to help them get started.

Variations

  • Assign themes or genres to the stories.
  • Have participants write down their contributions before sharing them.
  • Increase group size and have participants contribute in a circle.

Running it online or hybrid

Use breakout rooms for pairs and a shared document or virtual whiteboard to record the story if desired.

What it produces

A collaboratively created story with alternating positive and negative events.

Origin

Adapted from Playmeo — source

Build a session around Positive-Negative Storytelling

METODIC places Positive-Negative Storytelling inside a complete, timed session plan — agenda, worksheets, facilitator guide and slides — matched to your group and goal.

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