Finding Kizuki: Collaboration and Open-mindedness in a Possible World Session
This Possible World session was a powerful experience, filled with deep learning and insightful "Kizuki" moments. While we didn't create a perfectly balanced world in the time allotted, the journey was far more valuable than the destination (as I tell my daughter all the time :) ). We witnessed a beautiful exchange of ideas, "what ifs," and genuine care for one another. It was inspiring to see how readily participants, many of them strangers, embraced the challenge and worked together towards a brighter future. There were no right or wrong answers, only heartfelt contributions and a shared desire for positive change. This active listening and open communication fostered deep connections, even among those meeting for the first time.
My own "Kizuki" moment crystallized around the question: If we can create this kind of collaborative, open-minded environment in a game, why can't we do more of it in the real world? What would it take?
One of the most compelling aspects of the session was the exploration of collaboration. A participant suggested pooling all resources and entrusting them to one person, emphasizing support over competition. While this idea sounded promising at first glance, another participant raised a crucial point: concentrating power in one individual could lead to dictatorship and stifle open dialogue. This can be a difficult point to raise, as it can feel like rejecting the initial idea. However, the participant shared their perspective with grace and a smile, demonstrating a willingness to learn and grow.
Another participant then skillfully acknowledged the initial suggestion, making the first participant feel heard. They then reframed the concept of "dictatorship" as "leadership requiring trust," suggesting that perhaps we could all choose to be our own leaders. They further reframed "competition" as "considering others," softening the potentially negative connotation. This exchange perfectly illustrated the power of open-mindedness, active listening, and reframing. It showed how differing opinions, when shared respectfully, can lead to more nuanced and collaborative solutions.
From the very beginning, the participants embodied open-mindedness, active listening, and a genuine appreciation for diverse perspectives. They embraced the challenges, finding joy even in the face of adversity. This session served as a powerful reminder of the potential for human connection and collaboration when we create space for open dialogue and mutual respect.
Why can't we do more of this in our real world? What would it take? This is the question I left the session pondering. Perhaps the answer lies in cultivating the same qualities we witnessed in the game: open-mindedness, active listening, respectful communication, and a shared commitment to a brighter future. Perhaps it starts with recognising that we are all in this together, even with our different ideas and approaches. Perhaps it's about fostering "Kizuki" moments that inspire us to create the world we envision.
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1. Overview
Theme: Possible World - Kizuki and Mindset Shift
Date: Feb 07, 2025 09:00–11:00 JST
Location: Online
Participating Countries: Australia, Cambodia, Japan, and US
Participants: 6
2. World Emerged
3. Participant Voices
I can imagine spending longer and getting to know the other people better would be rewarding.
It would be great to have more time to debrief, play again, see what changes, etc.
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