The "Bad Ideas" Brainstorm

To remove the fear of failure and judgment from the creative process, encouraging participants to explore unconventional solutions. This exercise teaches that even a "bad" idea can contain a kernel of genius.

This activity flips the script on traditional brainstorming. Instead of trying to find the perfect idea, teams are challenged to find the hidden value in a terrible one. This pushes them to be more creative and less self-critical, creating a safe space for all ideas, no matter how wild.

1. Introduce the concept by explaining the goal: to prove that even bad ideas have a silver lining.

2. Divide the group into small teams of 3-5 people.

3. Assign a "bad idea" to each team (e.g., "sandpaper socks," "a waterproof umbrella," or "a solar-powered flashlight").

4. Set the timer for 5-10 minutes. Instruct teams to brainstorm all the potential benefits, uses, and selling points for their terrible product. Encourage them to be as imaginative and ridiculous as possible.

5. Pitch the ideas. Each group takes a turn pitching their "bad idea" to the larger team, highlighting their most creative and compelling arguments.