What Are 27 Things You Want To Do?

What if you wrote down 27 things you want to do? 

Twenty-seven. No more. No less.

This activity comes from the legendary coach and educator Richard Boyatzis. It’s from his terrific book, “Helping People Change.” 

Professor Boyatzis recommends you do this 27 Things exercise in a group. Each member of your team writes down their 27 Things on Post-it notes. Then groups them by categories like Career, Adventure, Family, etc 

Once you have your Post-Its, put them up on a wall and have your team members look at each others. One caveat: look at them like they are art! The viewer needs to be curious, humble, and not judgey! 

Two things happen. One, you may see shared goals amongst team members. 

Two, you’ll see another side to your colleagues. And maybe find another way to connect. (“Wait, I didn’t know you played Backgammon and were looking for a weekly game! Me too!”)

Again, I think it’s fun and smart to do this 27 Things exercise on your own as well.

Just write down some things you really want. Could be career. Could be personal development. Could be financial goals.

Once you’ve made your list, look it over and ask yourself a key question: what’s holding you back?! 

By the way, I am looking for a weekly Backgammon partner. Who’s up for it?