open · Team Building · 10–15 min · 2-100 people · high energy

Unlearn to Learn (Jolt)

A brief, experiential 'jolt' that demonstrates how difficult it is to break old habits to make room for new learning. It creates an immediate 'aha' moment about the necessity of unlearning.

When to use Unlearn to Learn (Jolt)

To prepare a group for a major change in process or mindset by highlighting their natural resistance to change.

What it solves

Resistance to new methods or 'we've always done it this way' thinking.

How to run Unlearn to Learn (Jolt), step by step

  1. Ask everyone to fold their arms in their usual way (1 min).
  2. Ask them to unfold and then refold them the 'other' way (with the other arm on top) (1 min).
  3. Ask how it feels (usually 'weird' or 'wrong') (2 mins).
  4. Discuss how this relates to learning new skills or changing team habits (5 mins).

Materials needed

  • None

Facilitator tips

  • The power is in the debrief—connect the physical discomfort to the mental discomfort of change.
  • Keep it light and playful.

Common pitfalls

  • Not spending enough time on the 'so what?' debrief.
  • Participants getting frustrated if they can't figure out the 'other' way to fold their arms.

Variations

  • Clasping hands (which thumb is on top) or writing with the non-dominant hand.

Running it online or hybrid

Works well on camera; use physical gestures (like folding arms) that everyone can do simultaneously.

What it produces

A shared mental model of the 'unlearning' process.

Origin

Adapted from Sivasailam 'Thiagi' Thiagarajan's Jolts — source

Build a session around Unlearn to Learn (Jolt)

METODIC places Unlearn to Learn (Jolt) inside a complete, timed session plan — agenda, worksheets, facilitator guide and slides — matched to your group and goal.

Generate a session with Unlearn to Learn (Jolt) · Try METODIC free