I took an improv class several years ago and one of the main principles was to take what the other person gave you and work with it.

An example: Your partner says, “You have a duck on your head.” The wrong answer is, “No, I don’t. It’s a quail.” Instead you say something like, “Yes and he keeps my head very warm. He’s my best friend Jimmy. Where’s your duck?”

The same is true in our business community. We have plenty of people who want to stomp on our ideas. Instead of exploring ideas together, our clients or co-workers look at why something won’t work.

So, when tempted to deny your co-worker or client an idea, try the “Yes, and…” exercise of exploring ideas together.