A playful and powerful way to loosen perfectionism, build creative fluency, and explore psychological flexibility.

Why use this?

Pointing at things invites participants into joyful nonsense and non knowing, gently exposing mental habits around “getting it right.” Its specially useful early in a session to shake off self-consciousness and establish permission to play.

Overview

In this activity participants point at objects in their environment and name them—first correctly, then incorrectly, and finally with full-body commitment and delight. 

With each stage, the cognitive challenge and playfulness increases, helping people build comfort with uncertainty, being present in the moment, and making bold choices.

The exercise blends embodiment, spontaneity, and language in a structured progression. It’s particularly useful for groups working on creative confidence, improvisation, or agility in the face of not knowing.

Activity Flow

Set-Up

• Each person needs space to move freely and point at things.
• Encourage people to spread out, use the environment, and avoid pointing at other people (which tends to distract).

Stage 1 – Call it what it is

• Participants walk around and point at objects, naming them accurately (e.g., “door,” “table,” “plant”).
• The first round can be really boring – allow that.
• Then do another round where you increase the energy by encouraging faster responses: point, then call. It’s also more fun and more of a challenge to alternate arms and zig zag around the space.

Debrief

• Was that easy? Automatic? Relaxed?
• How did it feel in your body?

Stage 2 – Call it what it is not

• Now, participants point at things and call them anything except what they actually are.
• Randomness, gibberish, repetition—all welcome.
• Go fast. Don’t worry about being funny or clever.

Instructions:
“We’re not interested in quality—we’re interested in fluency.”
“Only one way to do it wrong – everything else is right!”
“Fast is free.”

Debrief:

• What did you notice happening inside you?
• Did you develop or abandon strategies?
• When did it get fun? When did it get frustrating?
• Did you try to “get it right” even when there was no right?

Stage 3 – Embodied & Joyful Commitment

• Same as Stage 2, but now participants shout out words with joy, energy and a big smile.
• Big voice, big gestures, alternate arms, let your body lead.
• Celebrate each absurd offering like it’s a gift. If you end up in a wild heap on the floor – that’s a good sign!

Debrief:

• What effect did that have on your inner voice?
• Was it easier or harder with full energy?
• How did it feel in your body?
• Did the group energy affect your own?
• What’s the effect of playing with not knowing?

Notes

• This game reveals habits of self-censorship and overthinking in real time.
• It’s low-stakes, but can feel high-stakes—use that tension as a learning moment. It’s like walking a plank that’s on the ground.
• The embodied third round often helps participants break through inhibition.