In a nutshell

Some challenges can’t be “solved” — they can only be navigated.

This activity helps people explore the dynamic tension between two valuable but opposing forces.

Rather than choosing one side or finding a compromise, the aim is to understand the relationship between the poles — and use that insight to reframe the challenge in a more creative, adaptive way.

Set up

You’ll need:

• A polarised tension that relates to your challenge/issue/topic (or use the list below)

• Paper or whiteboard divided into two columns

Works well with groups or individuals — and particularly useful when you feel stuck in an either/or mindset.

Activity flow

Step 1: Choose a polarity (5 mins)

Start with a tension that feels relevant to your context — see list below or create your own.
Examples:

• Structure ⟷ Flexibility

• Speed ⟷ Quality

• Innovation ⟷ Consistency

Pick a polarity that you feel pulled between — one where both sides have value.

Step 2: Explore the upsides and downsides (10 mins)

Create a table like this:

Fill in each quadrant. Reflect on what each side offers when it’s at its best — and what happens when it’s overdone.

This helps you see that the issue isn’t “which is better” — it’s how to work with both in balance.

Step 3: Reframe the challenge (5–10 mins)

Using what you’ve learned, write a fresh version of the challenge.

Try prompts like:

• How might we hold the best of both?

• How can we maximise the benefits of X while staying grounded in Y?

• What system, structure, or habit could help us move fluidly between these poles?

This reframe should open up new ideas, new possibilities — and often, a better way of naming the real challenge.

Results

By the end, you’ll have:

• A richer understanding of the tensions at play

• Insight into where things may be unbalanced

• A redefined challenge that holds complexity rather than flattening it

Things to flag up

• If the group tries to “pick a side,” gently invite them to explore the need for both.

• Polarities often show up when things feel stuck — they’re useful signposts, not traps.

• It’s OK if some polarities don’t feel relevant — find the one that holds energy for your situation.

20 polarities to explore

1. Structure ⟷ Flexibility

2. Speed ⟷ Quality

3. Growth ⟷ Sustainability

4. Autonomy ⟷ Alignment

5. Innovation ⟷ Consistency

6. Openness ⟷ Boundaries

7. Honesy ⟷ Diplomacy

8. Doing ⟷ Being

9. Expertise ⟷ Curiosity

10. Work ⟷ Rest

11. Control ⟷ Trust

12. Big Picture ⟷ Detail

13. Planning ⟷ Improvising

14. Compete ⟷ Collaborate

15. Participative ⟷ Directive

16. Focus ⟷ Flexibility

17. Bigger ⟷ Smaller

18. Risk ⟷ Safety

19. Individual ⟷ Collective

20. Stability ⟷ Change