Preparation
Step-by-step instructions
1
Introduction
- Explain that the activity is about telling meaningful stories of failure.
- Clarify that the goal is not to complain, but to find meaning and learning in mistakes.
- Present the different narrative categories and examples of each (included in the inspiration section).
2
Selecting the failure
- Each participant reflects on a meaningful failure from their personal, professional, or group life.
- It can be a minor mistake or a major event, as long as it carries a lesson learned.
3
Building the story
- Each participant writes or structures their story around the chosen narrative.
- They can include elements like "what went wrong," "what I learned," and "what I would do differently in the future."
4
Sharing and reflecting
- Small groups are formed to share stories and reflect on common patterns in failures.
- Active listening is encouraged, and destructive criticism is avoided.
- The goal is to extract collective insights on how to better handle failure.
5
Closure
- Summarize the most relevant lessons learned.
- Reinforce the idea that failure is inevitable but can be an opportunity for growth.
- Optionally, lead a symbolic activity to “close” the failure story and look ahead.
Materials
Cards with narrative types (Catharsis, Hubris, Betrayal, Mechanical Failure, Nemesis, etc.).
Blank sheets or digital whiteboards.
Markers or pens.
Collaborative platforms if done virtually.
Digital tools
Practical recommendations
Give time to reflect in advance
Let participants know about the activity ahead of time so they can reflect on their experiences before the session.
Create a safe space
Encourage group trust and clarify that the activity is not about judgment, but about collective learning.
Provide positive examples
Start with a brief, light story to model the appropriate tone for the activity.
Allow narrative flexibility
If someone prefers not to share a personal story, they can tell a fictional or third-party-based story instead.
Encourage creativity
Let participants use drawings, metaphors, or diagrams to tell their story.
